Security measures at Cologne Cathedral extended until New Year
On Saturday, the Cologne police searched the cathedral with sniffer dogs following a "danger alert". No explosives were found. According to the police, the threat alert related to New Year's Eve, but for security reasons the Christmas fairs were already held under stricter protective measures.
In Austria, three suspects were arrested in connection with the potential threat. According to the authorities there, they are accused of belonging to a radical Islamic terror network that is said to have considered attacks on Cologne Cathedral and St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna.
According to information from Tuesday, the cathedral administration in Cologne has now made it possible for worshippers to light a candle outside the church for specific causes. A special stand was set up at the adjacent Christmas market for this purpose.
"Everyone who lights a candle in front of Cologne Cathedral these days is also setting a sign for peace," explained Cathedral Provost Monsignor Guido Assmann. "May this sign of peace grow and spread and shine out into the whole world as a sign of reconciliation."
Read also:
- This will change in December
- Attacks on ships in the Red Sea: shipping companies avoid important trade route
- Houthi rebels want to launch further attacks despite international coalition
- USA forms military coalition against Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea
- Due to the extended security measures, visitors to Cologne Cathedral might encounter increased police presence during the upcoming New Year celebrations.
- The attack plan, allegedly orchestrated by a radical Islamic terror network, targeted both Cologne Cathedral and St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, as revealed by Austria's authorities.
- Following the threat alert, the police conducted a thorough search of Cologne Cathedral using sniffer dogs on Saturday, but no explosives were discovered.
- In light of the potential threat, the cathedral administration in Cologne has implemented new security measures at the Christmas fairs, ensuring a safer environment for visitors.
- In response to the heightened security, worshippers are now able to light a candle outside the church for specific causes, with a dedicated stand set up at the adjacent Christmas market.
- Amidst the ongoing threat to religious sites like Cologne Cathedral, it is essential for local law enforcement and officials to have an attack plan in place during significant celebrations like Christmas and New Year.
Source: www.stern.de
