Homeless Shelter in Berlin-Schöneberg Closed Following Repeated Incidents and Police Operations

The homeless accommodation facility located on Fuggerstraße in the Nollendorfkiez district of Berlin-Schöneberg has been vacated following persistent reports of disturbances, police interventions, and complaints from local residents and businesses. The closure was confirmed by local authorities after a series of incidents that prompted increased scrutiny of the shelter's operations.

The property, previously operated as the 'BB Hotel,' has been at the center of ongoing challenges, including frequent police responses, allegations of aggressive behavior, excessive noise, and improper waste management. According to local authorities, all Berlin districts were instructed in September to cease further placements of homeless individuals in this facility under the city's General Security and Order Act (ASOG). This directive was followed, and the shelter was gradually emptied.

The official rationale for the closure has not been fully disclosed. While reports cited possible pest infestations as a contributing factor, city officials neither confirmed nor denied these claims. The shelter previously housed both individuals receiving social assistance and so-called 'self-payers'--residents who are not or only partially entitled to social benefits and therefore pay for accommodation privately.

Over the past several years, the Fuggerstraße facility has served various vulnerable groups, functioning as a refugee shelter for Syrians since 2015 and, more recently, as temporary accommodation for Roma families from Southeast Europe. The presence of the shelter has led to ongoing friction with neighboring residents and local business operators, who have raised concerns about increased street activity, noise, and public disturbances.

Law enforcement has been actively involved at the location, with more than 100 police deployments reported within a single year. Notably, recent police actions included raids targeting suspected human trafficking and welfare fraud. In late October, two women were detained on suspicion of involvement in human trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation. Earlier, authorities conducted checks for potential social benefit fraud, finding that the number of residents present did not match those officially registered to receive assistance.

Political responses in the district have varied, with some local officials advocating for a permanent closure of the facility. Efforts are reportedly underway to collect public support for such measures. Meanwhile, displaced residents have been relocated to alternative accommodations within Berlin, according to official statements.

The developments highlight broader challenges Berlin faces in providing safe and effective housing solutions for vulnerable populations, balancing public order with social support, and ensuring the integrity of social welfare programs. The future of the Fuggerstraße property remains uncertain as local authorities and stakeholders continue to assess next steps for both the site and the individuals previously residing there.