Authorities are ramping up security measures as the Cologne Carnival approaches, following alarming calls for attacks from the militant group ISIS. Starting Thursday, February 27, the carnival will attract thousands of revelers to the city, igniting concerns as the terror group has issued statements urging followers to target this popular event.
According to reports from Bild and t-online, ISIS called for attacks on the Weiberfastnacht on February 27, as well as on the Green Komm Carnival Festival on March 2, both scheduled to take place on the Cologne Rings. The terror organization also referenced celebrations occurring elsewhere, including the Rosenmontag festivity in Nuremberg and the Festival of Love in Rotterdam.
Cologne Police’s operations chief, Martin Lotz, noted, "Such publications aim to unsettle the population," highlighting the psychological warfare aspect of ISIS's propaganda efforts. While the police have not identified any specific planning for attacks, they are taking the threats seriously and adaptively reinforcing their security protocols. The IS threats have raised the current risk assessment, which now indicates an abstract high danger level, according to security circles.
Lotz reassured citizens, stating, "We will sensitize the deployment forces based on the posts and continually provide updates." This heightened alert stems from the recent history of violence related to radicalized lone-wolf attackers. It’s worth noting the police had already been collaborating on security measures following recent attacks, including one in Munich.
The Cologne Police are set to deploy over 1,500 officers during the carnival celebrations, particularly focusing on high-traffic areas such as the Zülpicher Viertel, the Rings, and the Old Town. Special precautions will be enforced at locations like the Cologne synagogue, due to the persistent conflict scenario presenting additional security challenges.
Officials have stated there will be increased controls to mitigate incidents of knife violence, which have been on the rise. A city-wide knife prohibition will be enforced across all public carnival events, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating the threat level.
The Cologne police's preparedness demonstrates their dedication to ensuring public safety during this festive period. The IS's attempts to instigate fear are noted as not new; such calls to violence through propaganda channels are part of their established methods to disrupt public events.
Despite no concrete evidence of attack plans, law enforcement remains on high alert. "Our plans remain unchanged, but we are under increased demand to be prepared for any eventuality," remarked the police spokesperson from Nuremberg. This reflects the overarching sentiment among police departments across Germany, as they brace for anticipated festivities amid tense security conditions.
The city of Cologne aims to maintain the celebratory spirit of the carnival, ensuring both local residents and visitors can enjoy the festivities without succumbing to panic over threats. Officials are confident their extensive security measures will effectively counter any potential operational plans from hostile entities.