Christmas masses in Cologne Cathedral continue under increased security precautions
The Cologne police searched the cathedral with sniffer dogs on Saturday evening following a "danger alert". However, no explosives were found. The media reported possible Islamist plans for an attack. According to these reports, the trail leads to an offshoot of the Islamic State (IS).
According to reports, the warnings also affected Austria and Spain. According to the Austrian news agency APA, four arrests were made in Vienna during an operation against an Islamist network. It remains to be seen whether they will be taken into custody.
According to the Cologne police, the threat warning related to New Year's Eve, but the security measures were brought forward to the Christmas period. Churchgoers were searched by officers at the entrance to the cathedral on Sunday. The police called on people to arrive early and, if possible, not to bring any bags so that the checks could be carried out quickly.
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- People were advised to arrive early for Christmas mass at Cologne Cathedral due to increased security precautions, as the police conducted thorough checks at the entrance.
- Despite the heightened alert, Christmas Day in Cologne was filled with the usual festivities, including the popular Christmas fairs, despite the increased vigilance under the dom.
- As a result of the more stringent security measures, lines to enter the cathedral on Saint's Eve were longer than usual, but the churchgoers stayed patient and cooperative.
- In light of the attack plan threats, the Cologne police had an additional layer of security in place during the more crowded Christmas mass services.
- More police officers were stationed around the Cologne Cathedral during the Christmas period, keeping a close eye on any suspicious activities and ensuring the safety of the visitors.
- In response to the potential danger, the authorities collaborated with local businesses and event organizers to tighten security around Christmas fairs and other festive attractions in the city.
- Attendees of the Christmas mass in Cologne on December 25 were grateful for the additional measures put in place by the police, as they felt safe knowing that all possible precautions were being taken to protect them and their loved ones on this special day.
Source: www.stern.de
