More than 1000 crimes daily at train stations
Train stations in Germany are witnessing a sharp rise in violent and sexual crimes, despite a decrease in overall crime rates nationwide. The 2024 federal police report presents a troubling picture of public safety in transportation hubs.
According to the report, violent crimes at stations increased by 6% compared to the previous year, and by an astonishing 51% compared to 2019. A total of 27,160 violent crimes were recorded, which included not only major cities but also extended to small and rural stations.
Sexual crimes have also increased significantly, rising by 19.2% and including cases of indecency, harassment, and rape. Despite a 10.1% decrease in total crimes in trains and stations, bringing the total to 381,894 cases, the rise in serious crimes raises concerns for the police and unions.
Manuel Ostermann, Vice President of the Federal Police Union, said the report is "concerning." Despite the overall numbers declining, crimes related to violence, sexual assaults, and weapons are sharply increasing. Nationwide, violent crimes have risen by 6.6% and sexual crimes by 13%, and these figures only include reported crimes.
The police believe that the rise in violence is due to several factors, including increasing social neglect, drug and alcohol abuse, and the influence of extremist groups on youth. The report also indicates that the typical perpetrator of crime is a man who is often intoxicated and often does not hold German citizenship. In 2024, men made up 79% of the suspects, with 49% of them under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while 53% did not hold German citizenship.
The federal police and Deutsche Bahn are increasing patrols, expanding the scope of surveillance cameras, and enforcing weapon-free zones. However, police officers assert that these measures are insufficient. Manuel Ostermann calls on Deutsche Bahn to increase its investments in security and modernize the stations, pointing out that clean and well-lit stations enhance the feeling of safety.
Police officers themselves are facing increasing assaults. In 2024, 2,967 cases of assault on federal police were recorded, one of the highest figures ever. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt condemned these attacks, emphasizing that officers are subjected to biting, kicking, slapping, and spitting, in addition to attacks with bottles, stones, and everyday tools. 804 officers were injured last year.
Despite some positive indicators, experts warn that Germany may be facing "dark years" of security decline. Years of neglecting infrastructure, a shortage of personnel, and weak coordination between federal and state governments are beginning to show their effects. As Manuel Ostermann said, rebuilding the security system and social infrastructure "will be like running a marathon."