Following a mass shooting in Leipzig that left at least two fatalities, Thorsten Frei, Chief of the Chancellor’s Office (CDU), commented on the current security situation within German cities while simultaneously advising caution against hasty judgments. Speaking on Monday evening during the ntv program “Pinar Atalay” Frei stated that while they are closely monitoring events on the ground, much of the current discussion remains in the speculative phase. He emphasized the need to gather comprehensive information before any definitive conclusions can be reached.
When questioned about defensive measures needed in city centers and potential security gaps, Frei drew comparisons to previous incidents, noting how situations like the one in Magdeburg made people’s lives feel unsafe. He acknowledged the profound anxiety such events cause, stating that if people feel incapable of living their normal lives without fear in the city, it takes a significant emotional toll.
However, Frei was quick to temper expectations regarding absolute safety. He realistically asserted that achieving total, complete security is impossible, even if investigators analyze incidents retrospectively to identify potential flaws. He added that while inner cities today look considerably different from they did just five or ten years ago, this necessary evolution is alarming only if it creates a feeling that it is necessary to make the area “sufficiently and reasonably safe”. Throughout his statements, his thoughts remained with the victims and their families.
