Big search in Cologne: Man in the Rhine remains disappeared!

Big search in Cologne: Man in the Rhine remains disappeared!

In Cologne, the water of the Rhine not only remains the habitat of numerous leisure activities, but also the scene of dramatic operations that illustrate the dangers of the river. As the Süddeutsche Zeitung Missing man strongly forced in the Rhine. The man was spotted between the Hohenzollernbrücke and the Bastei around 2:30 p.m., which immediately mobilized the emergency services. A sailor even jumped into the water with a lifeguard ring, but returned unscathed. Despite the enormous use of the water protection police, the fire brigade and the police, the man sought has so far been unobtrusive. A helicopter was also in use to support the search.

This search was reminiscent of a similar incident that had already occurred on May 1, 2025. Two men, 36 and 47 years old, had a bet who could swim the Rhine faster. The 36-year-old jumped into the water around 12:30 p.m. and was carried away by the strong current. After hours of search, the police operation had to be canceled, and the man remains missing despite all efforts. The 47-year-old, who was involved in this life-threatening bet, was arrested by the police-there was an open arrest warrant against him for theft. The local authorities urgently warn against the dangers of swimming in the Rhine, especially due to the strong current.

Drinking accidents in Germany

The incidents in Cologne are in the context of an alarming development. The German Lebensrettungsgesellschaft (DLRG) reports a total of 411 fatal accidents in waters in Germany in 2023, which means an increase of 31 deaths compared to the previous year. It is the third year with an increase in the drowned, and for the first time since 2019, the number of victims will again cross the 400. The DLRG President Ute Vogt expresses hope that the upcoming warm season will sensitize people to them. In particular, the organization plans to draw parents of small children aware of the risks.

Cologne has not only struggled with the challenging circumstances in the river, but also with the challenge of ensuring the safety of the floating and bathroom population. While there is no general bathing ban in the Rhine, the warnings of the authorities and the DLRG are urgent and should be taken seriously. The risk of drowning has many faces, and especially alcohol and self -overestimation are common causes of tragic incidents.

The events remind us that water sports and swimming are also associated with considerable risks despite great joy. Whether on a relaxed bathing excursion or on a sporting competition - caution is required in popular places such as the Rhine in Cologne.