Multiple Sexual Assaults Reported During Cologne Carnival

Köln - The recent street carnival in Cologne has been marred by a series of serious incidents involving sexual violence. Authorities reported multiple sexual offenses, including at least three confirmed cases of rape during the festivities that took place from Thursday into Friday.

The police issued 76 dispersal orders and made 14 arrests in response to various incidents. They also conducted over 210 checks aimed at protecting children and young people, and during around 370 searches for weapons, officers confiscated seven realistic-looking replicas and several knives.

In one of the reported incidents, a man, who has been identified, allegedly raped an 18-year-old woman in a local establishment around 6 PM. Additionally, an unknown assailant is accused of raping a young woman in a portable toilet near the university grounds at approximately 2:30 PM. Another 18-year-old woman reported a rape that occurred in a construction site toilet early Friday morning around 3:26 AM.

These troubling incidents highlight the risks women face in such crowded and chaotic environments. The police have urged festival-goers to remain vigilant and take precautions, such as not accepting drinks from strangers and keeping personal belongings secure.

In another incident on Thursday around 11:15 AM, officers apprehended a 76-year-old man who was reportedly photographing women's bodies without consent. His camera was confiscated, and he was also issued a dispersal order.

Authorities are continuing their investigations into the reported sexual offenses, and they have initiated inquiries into 25 cases of bodily harm that occurred during the carnival. The community is urged to report any suspicious activity to ensure the safety of all participants.

As the carnival festivities continue, officials emphasize the importance of planning safe transportation home and remaining in groups whenever possible. They also remind attendees of the severe consequences of impaired driving, whether in a vehicle or on an e-scooter.