Christmas market in Neumünster: Security through concrete bollards and controls!

Christmas market in Neumünster: Security through concrete bollards and controls!

Neumünster, Deutschland - Neumünster is in the starting blocks for the Christmas market season, which begins on November 21 and lasts until December 23. But the anticipation is overshadowed by a shadow: a suspected attack on a Christmas market in Elmshorn has put the security situation in the region to the test. The police department in Neumünster, responsible for the district of Rendsburg-Eckernförde, works on a comprehensive security concept to protect citizens. "We observe the current situation and adapt it if necessary," explains Sönke Petersen, press spokesman for the police department.

In order to make the Christmas market on the large spots safely, heavy concrete bollards were installed on all entrances. This measure, which was introduced after the terrible attack on Breitscheidplatz in Berlin in 2016, is intended to prevent vehicles from being able to drive into the crowd. The access roads at the Rathauskreisel, Karstadtkreisel, Lütjenstraße and Holstenstraße are now secured. "An extensive security concept was created that is constantly adapted to the current requirements," emphasizes Stephan Beitz, press spokesman for the city of Neumünster.

stricter security precautions

In addition to the physical barriers, there are new regulations: a recently decided knife ban prohibits driving knives and weapons at public events, including Christmas markets. While general controls are not provided to at the entrances, the weapon ban is rigorously enforced in the event of suspected cases. "In the event of conspicuous behavior, bags and backpacks are checked," continued Beitz. The police and the municipal regulatory service will be increasingly patrol throughout the season to ensure the safety of visitors.

Even in Rendsburg, the security measures were not taken lightly after the terrorist attack in Berlin. "Delegations were taken to significantly reduce the risk of such attacks," explains Dana Frohbös, press spokeswoman from Rendsburg. The police measures of the Neumünster Manager also apply to the Christmas market "De Lütte Wiehnacht" in Rendsburg. The preparations are in full swing to enable the citizens a safe and happy festival.