BKA Assesses Carnival Security: No Specific Threats Identified

The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) has stated that there are currently no specific threats related to planned attacks during this year's Carnival festivities. As the celebrations commence this Thursday, concerns have been heightened following recent incidents, such as attacks during a Christmas market in Magdeburg and a demonstration in Munich, which have left some participants feeling uneasy.

According to the BKA's updated evaluation, aside from propaganda-related publications and calls for criminal actions, there are no concrete indications of potential attacks targeting Carnival events this year. Nevertheless, the agency emphasizes that the overall risk posed by Islamist terrorism remains elevated in Germany.

The BKA warns that irrational actions by individuals and unpredictable behaviors from such persons can pose threats at public gatherings. Furthermore, the agency suggests that there may be an increase in disinformation campaigns and fake news related to Carnival, aimed at unsettling the public and undermining their sense of security.

To ensure that Carnival celebrations can proceed safely and enjoyably, the BKA urges the public to heed current safety guidelines and recommendations from event organizers and local police. In recent times, radical extremists have called for attacks on social media platforms, specifically urging followers to target events like the Carnival in Cologne.