Following a recent threat of an attack aboard an ICE train, Stephan Stracke, vice-chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has called for increased security measures. According to the CSU Member of Parliament speaking to the “Rheinische Post” (Saturday edition), the deepening threat associated with rail travel is an unsustainable situation. While acknowledging that the initial quick-fix program agreed upon by Deutsche Bahn and the federal states represents a positive start, Stracke believes that further actions are necessary.
The transport politician suggested considering making it mandatory in the future to only grant access to railway tracks equipped with a valid ticket, coupled with the implementation of security checks. He proposed a phased approach, beginning with large train stations that are also known hotspots for criminal activity. Crucially, he emphasized the absolute necessity of providing the best possible protection for both train staff and passengers.
The demands come in the wake of an incident last Thursday in North Rhine-Westphalia, where an individual ignited explosive devices on an ICE train and made threats of an attack, resulting in at least twelve people suffering minor injuries. Previously, the train company had introduced an immediate program in January aimed at improving safety and cleanliness in stations, which included increasing the number of security personnel and expanding video surveillance.
