Expansion of Weapon Bans Considered as Berlin Police Seizes 95 Weapons and Knives in Restricted Areas

Since mid-February, Berlin has implemented permanent zones where the possession of weapons and knives is prohibited. These zones are located in areas identified as having high crime rates, specifically at Leopoldplatz in Wedding, as well as Görlitzer Park and Kottbusser Tor in Kreuzberg. According to police reports, a total of 95 knives and various weapons have been confiscated in these designated areas.

The majority of these seizures occurred at Leopoldplatz, where 49 items were taken, while 23 weapons were found each at Görlitzer Park and Kottbusser Tor. When weapons and knives are discovered in these locations, offenders are typically charged with administrative offenses, and the items are confiscated.

Police operations are conducted during focused enforcement activities by the relevant police precincts. Additionally, a specialized unit assists in monitoring the areas around Görlitzer Park and Kottbusser Tor.

Berlin's Interior Senator, Iris Spranger, is contemplating the establishment of further restricted zones across the city. This consideration follows the Federal Police's recent prohibition on carrying knives and weapons at several Berlin train stations. Similar restrictions may potentially be extended to the public transport system in Berlin.

The introduction of these bans is part of a broader legislative response to increasing violence, especially after last year's tragic attack in Solingen, which resulted in three fatalities. The new regulations empower state governments to establish weapon bans in specific locations.