Police Increase Presence After False Terror Threat Targets Berlin Schools

Authorities in Berlin have heightened their presence at multiple schools following the circulation of a false terror threat that caused widespread concern among parents and students. The alert, which was distributed in Russian via various messaging platforms, claimed that more than 20 schools in the city were under threat of attack. Investigations by law enforcement have since determined that the warning was a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation and incite fear within the community.

Police have launched a formal inquiry into the incident, treating it as a case of disturbing public order through the threat of criminal acts. Efforts are underway to identify the origin of the message, with particular attention given to the possibility that it may have been orchestrated from outside Germany. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution is also involved in the investigation to determine if the incident was a targeted disinformation campaign.

Over 900 concerned parents contacted authorities after receiving the warning, with many expressing reluctance to send their children to school. In response, police units were deployed to 34 schools across Berlin on Monday. Specially trained officers were present to provide reassurance and information, emphasizing that there was no credible evidence of any actual threat to student safety. The regular school schedule proceeded, and educational authorities encouraged families not to spread unverified information.

The false threat quickly circulated through parental chat groups, often listing specific school names, some of which were outdated or no longer operational. This added to the confusion and anxiety among families. The Berlin Department of Education coordinated closely with law enforcement, ensuring that school administrators and crisis teams responded promptly to the situation. Information protocols from emergency handbooks were implemented to keep schools and parents informed.

Parent representatives reported significant unease among children and their families due to the widespread dissemination of the fake threat. The State Parent Committee urged the public to heed police guidance in handling such incidents and to avoid amplifying false or misleading information. Student representatives called for improved communication from schools during such events, noting that accurate and timely updates could help alleviate fears and prevent the unnecessary spread of rumors.

Law enforcement reiterated that there were no indications of any real danger to Berlin schools. They warned against sharing unverified alerts, noting the potential for these actions to cause unnecessary panic and disrupt public order. The incident highlights the challenges authorities face in countering rapidly spreading disinformation, particularly when it leverages social media and messaging platforms to reach large audiences.

Officials continue to investigate the source of the false message and are working to reinforce communication channels between schools, parents, and law enforcement. The case underscores the importance of responsible information sharing and the critical role of official channels in maintaining public safety and trust.