Searches and arrests after attack warnings in Cologne
The police are "exhausting all legal possibilities to protect the people, the cathedral and the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations", explained CID chief Michael Esser. The police are investigating at full speed.
The Cologne police searched Cologne Cathedral with sniffer dogs on Saturday following a "danger alert". No explosives were found, but strict security measures were imposed for the cathedral, which are to remain in place until the New Year. The media reported possible Islamist plans for an attack. According to these reports, the trail leads to an offshoot of the jihadist militia Islamic State (IS). The Federal Public Prosecutor General's Office did not wish to comment further on the events when asked on Tuesday.
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The special unit assigned to the case was working relentlessly, following the lead from the attack warning in Cologne. Michael Esser, the CID chief, reinforced the need for continued searches and vigilance. The police conducted extensive searches in and around the Cologne Cathedral, also utilizing sniffer dogs to ensure safety. Michael Esser issued an attack warning for Wesel as well, instilling a sense of urgency among the local population. The arrests made in connection with the case were meticulously documented by the police for further investigation. The plans for potential attacks were reportedly drawn up by an offshoot of Islamic State (IS), igniting concerns of further Islamist threats. Despite the ongoing investigations, the Federal Public Prosecutor General's Office remained silent on the matter. The securities measures at the Cologne Cathedral remained in place, assuring a continued sense of protection for the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations.
Source: www.stern.de
