Cologne police strike: drug raid causes a stir in the city center!

Cologne police strike: drug raid causes a stir in the city center!

Extensive police checks took place in Cologne city center on Wednesday, June 11th. The focus was particularly on Baumstrasse and Neumarkt, where officers in plain clothes and uniform wanted to take action against drug-related crime and regulatory violations. The measures should also serve to strengthen public safety and take a stand against drug trafficking, such as KSTA reports.

The checks revealed several abnormalities. A 35-year-old man was observed handing bubbles containing cocaine to a 46-year-old on Baumstrasse. A 30-year-old man was also noticed at St. Cecilia's Monastery, where heroin was seized. Another 25-year-old suspect was observed allegedly selling drugs in Spinnmühlengasse. During his search, heroin and cash were found in denominations typical of the deal. Investigators also discovered a stolen bicycle nearby. Criminal charges were filed for all those arrested. The investigation continues.

The Basics of Drug Crime

Drug crime in Germany is a serious problem that affects not only large cities but also rural regions. Loud Statista

The role of North Rhine-Westphalia is particularly noticeable as it is used as a transit country for drugs, with drugs often entering the country from the Netherlands. The LKA NRW has seized worrying quantities of drugs, particularly cocaine with a high purity content. It is clear here that the availability of drugs, be it through street sales or via the Internet, is high. When it comes to drug trafficking on the Internet, including on the Darknet, mail delivery is increasingly being used, which is due to the flourishing online trade Police NRW emphasized.

The social problem

The increasing number of drug deaths in Germany is alarming. With around 2,230 drug deaths in 2023, the problem is a serious social and health concern. Many of these deaths suffer from long-term health problems caused by excessive drug use. In Bremen in particular, the rate is highest at just under 5 cases per 100,000 residents, which puts additional pressure on the region.

The current controls in Cologne city center are a step in the right direction to meet these challenges. But there is still a lot to do - it is clear that a holistic approach, which also includes preventative measures and education, is necessary to fundamentally combat drug-related crime.