BERLIN – German authorities have detained a man in connection with a reported threat to Cologne Cathedral during the holiday period. The cathedral was searched by police with sniffer dogs just before Christmas, and security checks were implemented for Christmas Eve worshippers attending midnight Mass. While authorities did not provide specific details about the threat, German news agency dpa reported that indications of a possible attack by Islamic extremists prompted the security measures.
Police in Cologne took precautions over Christmas, even though the information they received pointed to a threat on New Year’s Eve. On Christmas Eve, an apartment in Wesel near the Dutch border was searched, and five men were detained. Four of them were subsequently released, but a 30-year-old Tajik man, who is of unspecified security interest to the authorities, remains in custody as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential danger.
Cologne police obtained approval from a court in Oberhausen on Monday to continue detaining the Tajik man until January 7. We are using all the legal possibilities to protect people, the cathedral, and the upcoming New Year’s celebrations, stated Michael Esser, the criminal police chief of Cologne.
Concerns regarding the safety and security of the cathedral persist, but authorities are determined to ensure the safety of the public, particularly during the New Year’s festivities. The ongoing detention of the Tajik man is part of their efforts to prevent any potential threats.
Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s most renowned landmarks, draws millions of visitors each year and is particularly busy during the holiday season. It is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to guarantee the safety of the public and preserve the sanctity of this historic place of worship.
The investigation into the alleged threat to Cologne Cathedral continues, with law enforcement agencies working meticulously to uncover any further details and ensure the protection of the cathedral and its visitors. As the situation unfolds, updated information will be provided to the public, enabling them to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.
Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant during the New Year’s celebrations and report any suspicious activities or individuals. They emphasize the importance of collective security and the need for everyone to play an active role in safeguarding public spaces and maintaining a peaceful environment.
While Cologne Cathedral represents a potential target for attacks, law enforcement agencies are committed to upholding their duty to ensure public safety. Measures such as increased security checks and continued detainment of individuals deemed potential threats demonstrate their determination to protect the public and uphold the values of peace and unity in the face of adversity.
