A number of man-made lakes are an occasional feature, the largest of which is situated in and around a forested area of some 30 km/sq, less than 7.0 km to the north-west.

The forested area effectively surrounds the neighbouring village of Wermsdorf on all sides except the south which faces towards Mügeln.

The incident received worldwide media attention, which was particularly disturbing and unwelcome because of the participation of some of the public in what could be rightly compared to little better than spectators seeking entertainment by encouraging the assailants to continue their assault.

[5] The incident occurred during a town celebration in Mügeln, and although the motives were never ascertained, racism is thought to be at the root of the trouble.

A preliminary investigation has been launched against two of those believed to be responsible for the assault, and the German Federal Government has vowed to increase its efforts to thwart right-wing extremism.