Germany’s Federal Police Union (GdP) is issuing a stark warning to potential instigators of New Year’s Eve unrest, signaling a significant escalation in security measures following a series of increasingly violent incidents in recent years. Andreas Roßkopf, head of the GdP’s Federal Police division, cautioned in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” that authorities are “well prepared and will intervene decisively” against any disturbances.
The heightened readiness reflects a growing concern over the spiraling trend of aggression witnessed during previous New Year’s Eve celebrations, characterized by attacks on law enforcement personnel utilizing fireworks, including the particularly dangerous “ball-bearing bombs”. Roßkopf emphasized that the experiences of recent years necessitate a substantial increase in police presence and resources.
Reinforcements will be strategically deployed to major transportation hubs, including Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Hanover, to proactively manage potential hotspots. The operational response will encompass mobile control and surveillance units, the Federal Reserve Police, a rapid deployment of specialized technical teams and “robust” response units kept on standby. Further augmenting security, preparations have been made for the deployment of helicopters.
While the GdP’s focus will be on assertive action within its jurisdiction and in supporting state police forces, Roßkopf underscored a critical need for judicial accountability. He issued a call for “quick and stringent penalties by the courts” arguing that effective deterrence requires not only forceful intervention by law enforcement but also consistent and swift prosecution of offenders. The warning highlights a shift towards a more preventative and assertive security posture, raising questions about the balance between public safety and civil liberties in the context of recurring unrest. The GdP’s stance also subtly places pressure on the judicial system to ensure a rapid and impactful response to any violations, indicating a desire for a more unified approach to tackling the problem.
