Ukrainian refugee killed in Germany by other refugees because of his Nationality

A tragic incident unfolded in the German city of Oberhausen on Saturday evening, resulting in the death of 17-year-old Ukrainian refugee Volodymyr Yermakov and the injury of his teammate, Artem K., in what is reported as a racially motivated attack.

The two Ukrainian teenagers, aspiring basketball players, were taking the bus from the CentrO shopping center to the main train station at around 8 p.m. when they encountered a group of youths. The gang, described as eight individuals of Arab appearance, followed them off the bus and launched a frenzied knife attack as the victims headed towards the train station on their way home to Düsseldorf.

German newspaper Bild reported that the victims were stabbed a total of nine times in the chest and stomach. Tragically, Volodymyr succumbed to his injuries, while Artem K. was rushed to the hospital and is currently receiving treatment in intensive care.

The Kyiv Basketball Federation first reported the incident on social media, highlighting that the attack was seemingly motivated by the victims’ Ukrainian nationality. The federation revealed that the assailants fled the scene, but German police swiftly identified a 15-year-old German-Turk, with a history of previous convictions, as a suspect. Another 14-year-old suspect, known to authorities and with a migration background, was initially arrested but later released due to insufficient evidence.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is in constant communication with German authorities over the attack. Oleh Nikolenko, a ministry spokesman, stated that police have detained one attacker, and investigations are ongoing. The Consulate General in Düsseldorf emphasized the need for a swift investigation and justice for the perpetrator.

Volodymyr Yermakov had moved to Düsseldorf in July the previous year to escape the conflict in Ukraine. The Ukrainian Basketball Association mourned the loss of a popular and ambitious young player, emphasizing his joy for life and dedication to sports. The incident highlights the devastating consequences of racial violence and the need for authorities to address such crimes promptly and effectively.