Attempted Theft in Hamm-Mitte Leads to Violent Confrontation with Police

Hamm-Mitte witnessed a chaotic scene as an attempted theft at a discount store escalated into a significant police intervention. On the evening of October 2, 2025, around 8:00 PM, a group of four individuals, aged 28, 31, 33, and 39, were observed by a store detective concealing food items within their bags and clothing.

Upon noticing the suspicious activity, the police were alerted. However, one member of the group signaled to the others, prompting them to hastily load their stolen goods into a shopping cart. The situation intensified when it was discovered that three of the suspects did not have a fixed residence, leading the authorities to require a security deposit based on directives from the public prosecutor's office.

Complicating matters further, a warrant for the arrest of the 39-year-old suspect was in effect. As police attempted to take him into custody, he made an effort to escape but was quickly apprehended. During the arrest, he resisted significantly.

In an unexpected turn, the two accomplices, aged 31 and 33, intervened, attacking the officers in a bid to assist their fleeing associate. They made a break for it in a rental vehicle, where the 28-year-old female accomplice was already waiting to drive away. Nevertheless, a police patrol car successfully blocked their escape route, resulting in the temporary detention of the 31-year-old and 33-year-old suspects.

A search of the suspects revealed that they had stolen car keys from a police officer. Additionally, authorities found a knife and razor blades on the 39-year-old suspect, leading to his transfer to a correctional facility.

Two officers, aged 22 and 23, sustained minor injuries during the confrontation but remained fit for duty.