a minute agoGermany, France step up new year security measures due to terrorist threats
Periskopi(2 years ago)
(2 years ago)France and Germany have stepped up security before New Year's celebrations following warnings that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas had increased the risk of terrorist attacks. Police in the German town of Kolnni are increasing its forces after a report that Islamic groups may plan an attack on the famous cathedral [...]
France and Germany have stepped up security before New Year's celebrations following warnings that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas had increased the risk of terrorist attacks.
Police in the German town of Kolnni are increasing its forces after a report that Islamic groups may plan an attack on the city's famous cathedral on New Year's Eve.
Officer Martin Lotz said at a press conference on officers wearing machine guns and wearing protective vests would be placed in the city, reports Can.
The town's Gothic cathedral announced it will only open for church services until further announcement “due to the current security situation”, according to a statement published in social media.
Meanwhile, in Berlin, police are trying to raise awareness of the dangers of fireworks through social media channels.
Concerns have increased after last year's New Year celebrations in Berlin turned into violent riots. Some were injured, including police officers and firefighters, who said fireworks were deliberately directed against them. Pyrotechnics also lit fires on the street.
Meanwhile, France will commit 90 thousand police after the country faces a very high terrorist “, French Interior Minister Gerald Darman said on Friday.
“I have requested a very strong mobilization of our police and gendarmes in a context of a very high terrorist threat, of course because of what is happening in Israel and Palestine”, Darman said.
According to data from the French Interior Ministry, the number of police mobilized is approximately the same for New Year's Eve last year.
In addition to terrorist threats, France traditionally sees an increase in minor violations, especially the burning of cars, while people celebrate New Year's arrival.
The countries, including France, Germany and Austria, increased security checks and protection for churches ahead of Mass and Christmas night celebrations.
In the month we are leaving behind, four suspected Hamas members suspected of planning terrorist attacks on European soil were arrested by German and Dutch authorities.
