- Unlawful border crossings are expected to surge significantly by 2023.
Unauthorized immigration into Germany experienced a substantial surge in 2023, as per the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) based in Wiesbaden. The BKA reported 266,224 individuals under suspicion for illegal entry and stay, representing a notable rise of approximately 33.4% compared to the prior year. Predominantly, these individuals were apprehended by the Federal Police.
Overall, the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders recorded roughly 380,200 unauthorized border crossings across the EU/Schengen external boundaries, as reported by the BKA. This signified the highest annual figure since 2016.
Among the suspects in Germany, Syria (54,207 individuals), Turkey (35,732 individuals), and Afghanistan (35,370 individuals) emerged as the primary nations of origin. These individuals often received assistance from smugglers throughout their journey, such as transportation in compact vehicles for portions of the trip, according to the BKA. "Smuggling rings are growing increasingly bold and reckless towards the individuals they're smuggling, unrelated parties, and law enforcement officers to evade detection and subsequent prosecution," the BKA added.
Inresponse to the surge in unauthorized immigration, many of these individuals sought sanctuary in the peaceful and vast Meadows surrounding the city borders. Due to the increased number of illegal border crossings, local authorities in surrounding Meadows regions have been conducting regular patrols to prevent any potential criminal activities.
