The Police Union (GdP) is escalating its criticism of the German government’s response to the escalating violence surrounding New Year’s Eve, specifically targeting attacks on law enforcement officers using fireworks and explosive devices. Andreas Roßkopf, the GdP’s chairman, argues that swift and severe legal consequences are urgently needed to deter future incidents.
Roßkopf voiced disappointment, stating that despite widespread public outrage last year following numerous injuries to police officers and civilians, “politically, nothing has changed”. While Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig recently signaled intentions to increase penalties for assaults on police, Roßkopf emphasized that the mere announcement of harsher sentences is insufficient. “Such penalties must be implemented promptly to have a deterrent effect” he stated, highlighting the inherent problem of drawn-out legal proceedings and lenient judgments, which undermine the perceived severity of the punishment.
The GdP insists that these offenses should not be treated as minor infractions but recognized as violations of explosives laws. Last year’s events in Berlin starkly illustrated the devastating potential of fireworks, including rocket-propelled projectiles and ball-bearing bombs, capable of causing severe injuries and fatalities. Roßkopf described the situation in certain areas of major German cities and at key railway hubs as “no longer acceptable”. He underscored the considerable stress and risk faced by officers during New Year’s Eve, emphasizing the ever-present threat of injury.
Beyond judicial reform, Roßkopf is advocating for reinforced border controls. He called for increased vigilance by customs and federal police at the borders with Poland and the Czech Republic to intercept the illicit smuggling of fireworks. However, he cautioned that the effectiveness of these border measures hinges on the judiciary’s willingness to swiftly and decisively prosecute offenders, creating a clear link between illegal activity and severe repercussions. The union’s statements implicitly challenge the government’s ability to effectively address the issue, suggesting that measures to date have been largely symbolic and failing to address the underlying problem of escalating violence against law enforcement.