Police on Tuesday launched a manhunt for the gunmen who attacked a vehicle carrying two German diplomats on Monday near the town of Awamiya in the Eastern Province.
The attack has sparked speculation as to whether it was a terrorist-related incident or a deliberate attempt to disturb peace and security in the Qatif region.
Maj. Gen. Mansour Al-Turki, Ministry of Interior spokesman, would only confirm the incident without divulging details. The diplomats escaped unhurt in the shooting incident that took place while they were on a drive, but their vehicle caught fire, Al-Turki said, adding: “Police in the Eastern Province will give details once they are ready.”
German Ambassador Dieter W. Haller said that an investigation has already been launched and that the German Embassy is closely working with Saudi officials.
The diplomat thanked the Saudi bystander who came forward and helped in rescuing the diplomats during the attack and said he was unaware of any arrests thus far.
Haller said: “These two embassy staffers went on a drive to the eastern part of the Kingdom. Sometimes, diplomats move across different parts of the Kingdom to acquaint themselves with the people and culture of the host country or to meet friends and well-wishers.”
The Foreign Ministry in Berlin also confirmed the attack and condemned it.
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