The German Interior Ministry has confirmed that 130 foreign nationals suspected of involvement in murder, manslaughter, or negligent homicide remained in Germany at the close of 2024. The figures, revealed in a response to a parliamentary inquiry from the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) faction and reported by “Welt”, raise serious questions about immigration policy, law enforcement effectiveness and the potential for unchecked criminal activity.
The data, extracted from the Police Kriminalstatistik (PKS), details 32 instances of suspected murder, 94 cases of manslaughter and four involving negligent homicide. Crucially, 34 of the individuals implicated were residing in Germany illegally, defying deportation orders. A significantly larger number, 96, were permitted to stay under a “Duldung” status – a temporary residency allowance frequently granted due to ongoing legal proceedings, logistical barriers to deportation, or perceived threats to their safety upon return.
This situation has ignited a political firestorm, with the AfD leveraging the statistics to criticize the government’s immigration policies as overly lenient and contributing to a decline in public safety. They argue that the generous application of Duldungen effectively shields individuals suspected of serious crimes from accountability and obstructs lawful deportation.
Critics are questioning the criteria used to grant Duldungen, particularly given the severity of the alleged crimes. Legal experts point to the challenges in balancing the principles of due process and the imperative to remove individuals deemed a threat to the community. The practice of prioritizing legal procedures over potential dangers has drawn increased scrutiny, especially given the recent rise in concerns surrounding public safety and integration.
The Interior Ministry, while acknowledging the figures, maintains that deportation is a complex process, often hindered by international agreements and individual circumstances. However, the substantial number of suspects remaining in Germany despite these reported obstacles is prompting calls for a thorough review of existing procedures and a strengthening of the government’s resolve to enforce deportation laws. Opposition parties are demanding greater transparency regarding the application process for Duldungen and advocating for stricter criteria, particularly in cases involving violent crimes. The incident highlights a deepening political tension surrounding immigration and security within Germany and its potential impact on national policy remains significant.