Syrian man abuses his wife and eight children for years in Klagenfurt
The police in Klagenfurt uncovered a horrific case of domestic violence, where a 44-year-old Syrian man abused his wife and eight children over several years. The family was rescued after neighbors reported hearing screams and cries for help coming from their apartment.
The incident occurred on Saturday at 1:00 PM in a multi-story residential building. Authorities received several reports of unusual noises and desperate screams from women and children. Upon arrival, the police found the father repeatedly hitting his 35-year-old wife in the face.
Investigations revealed that this was not the first incident, as the wife had suffered years of physical violence and death threats. The father also forced his 16-year-old daughter to stay inside the apartment at all times, except during school hours, under the threat of violence.
Seven other children aged between 5 and 18 were also found inside the apartment. The police confirmed that all the children had been subjected to domestic violence repeatedly and showed signs of fear and psychological distress during the rescue operation.
The authorities took immediate legal action, issuing a restraining order preventing the suspect from approaching the family or entering their home. The public prosecutor's office ordered his arrest at the Klagenfurt prison. The Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) and the Center for the Protection of Victims of Violence, as well as the Federal Office for Migration and Foreign Affairs, were notified to ensure the family's protection and provide them with the necessary support.
This issue highlights the growing concerns about domestic violence in Austria, especially within immigrant families, where social isolation and economic or cultural pressures can increase the risk of long-term violence.