Four weeks before Christmas Eve, police and security authorities have no evidence of any specific threat to Christmas markets in Bavaria. As in previous years, organizers had to work closely with the police in the Free State to create individual security concepts for each market. “Bavarian security authorities and police ensure comprehensive protection so that visitors can enjoy the market in peace,” said the Interior Minister Joachim Hermann (CSU) in Erlangen.
So far there have been no cancellations due to excessive security requirements
So far there have been no cancellations of Christmas markets in Bavaria due to excessive security requirements, Herrmann continued. If necessary, the security concept must be adjusted. “That POLICE There will be a strong civilian and uniformed presence. Police headquarters and riot police will also provide support.” In addition, selective personal and bag checks will also be carried out due to the ban on the use of knives at Christmas markets which will take effect from October 2024.
In recent years there have been repeated attacks, sometimes fatal, on Christmas markets, for example about a year ago in Magdeburg or in 2016 on Berlin’s Breitscheidplatz. As a result, security measures were tightened everywhere. CSU boss Markus Söder recently expressed his criticism that the security situation in the Natal city area can only be guaranteed through massive armament.
100% security is impossible
“The fear of an attack should not change our lives. Bavarian security authorities and police are doing everything they can to ensure that the Christkindl and Christmas markets are as safe as possible,” Herrmann said. There is no reason not to visit the Christmas market for safety reasons. Bavaria to forget – although there is no 100% security. “To me it is clear: If we start abandoning our traditions and values, those who hate our way of life will achieve their goals.”
Responsibility for the safety of Christkindl and Christmas markets generally lies with the organisers. The level of security measures is determined on site – from the selection of the event location to the deployment of security and order services to emergency and rescue routes and technical barriers such as fences or entry barriers.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251124-930-334024/2
