Union Calls for Nationwide Ban on Weapons in Public Transport

The police union in Germany is advocating for a comprehensive ban on carrying weapons, including knives, in all forms of public transport, encompassing buses, trains, and train stations across the nation. This call for action arises amid increasing concerns regarding passenger safety and the existing inconsistencies in regulations across different states.

Andreas Roßkopf, the head of the Federal Police section of the union, highlighted the necessity for a unified approach among the 16 federal states to address the varying regulations that currently exist. He pointed out that many citizens are often unaware of the specific zones where weapons are prohibited, which can lead to confusion and potential safety risks.

Currently, a blanket ban on weapons exists only in long-distance train services. Recently, both Berlin and Baden-Württemberg have announced their intentions to implement a weapons ban in local public transport systems. The Berlin Senate's interior administration justified this measure by stating it would enhance the ability to conduct checks and improve overall safety. In contrast, Schleswig-Holstein has already enacted a prohibition on weapons and knives in its public transport.

The police union is hopeful for a consensus among the interior ministers of the states that would lead to a standardized national regulation. However, the Bavarian Ministry of the Interior has indicated it prefers to leave the decision to local municipalities rather than establishing a statewide policy.

Currently, certain train stations across Germany have specific prohibitions against carrying dangerous items, which are regulated through temporary general decrees issued by local authorities. Data from the Federal Police revealed that 38 such decrees were issued last year, a significant increase from just nine in 2022. In a recent incident, police in Frankfurt reported seizing 75 knives within a designated weapons prohibition area in the city's train station district this year alone.

Roßkopf noted that train stations often become crowded environments, particularly during evening hours, where poorly lit areas can create feelings of insecurity among passengers. He emphasized that while the union does not advocate for full-scale inspections, the integration of technology, such as AI-assisted surveillance systems, could play a crucial role in enhancing safety. He suggested that such technology could help identify potential threats in advance, thereby improving the overall sense of security in public transport.