Berlin’s police force, one of Germany’s largest with approximately 28,000 officers, is facing a significant operational challenge due to the temporary closure of a key evidence storage facility. A recent circular issued by the State Criminal Police Office (LKA) at the end of June, referencing a directive from the public prosecutor’s office, has prompted discussions within the force about potentially postponing planned raids.
The closure of the criminal court’s evidence depot in Moabit, effective from July 1st, is attributed to severe overcrowding and pressing needs for renovation to ensure workplace and fire safety. The Moabit facility, amongst the largest in Germany, is essential for processing seized items.
The LKA circular instructs officers to assess, on a case-by-case basis, whether execution of searches can be deferred where legally and tactically feasible, with the aim of reducing the accumulating evidence. This includes considering postponements for cases lacking immediate urgency or involving less serious offenses.
While delaying operations under such circumstances is a standard practice, often due to personnel limitations, concerns have been voiced within the police. Representatives from the German Police Union have expressed unease regarding the signal the current situation sends, emphasizing that officers frequently uncover illicit substances, weapons, stolen goods and contraband even during routine operations. A swift return to full operational capacity of the evidence depot is hoped for to mitigate potential impacts on law enforcement activities.
