Bavaria After the attacks: Metal detectors and more stewards at the Wiesn
As a consequence of the suspected Islamist-motivated attacks in Solingen and Munich, stricter security measures have been introduced for the Oktoberfest.
12.09.2024, 16:21
SDA
For the first time, hand-held metal detectors will be used at the entrances to the festival. The media group "Merkur/tz" had reported on this. The checks will be based on random samples and suspicion, said festival director and economic officer Clemens Baumgärtner.
"We will certainly have more stewards", Baumgärtner told the German Press Agency. "We will certainly also see individual pat-downs." These should also be carried out during the checks at the entrances on a random and suspicion-based basis.
The Wiesn is considered the largest folk festival in the world and attracts millions of guests every year. This year, the festival begins on September 21 and lasts until October 6.
No particular threat
"At the moment, the police are not aware of any particular threat to the Oktoberfest," emphasized Baumgärtner. "Of course, we will do everything we can to protect Oktoberfest visitors as best we can," said Lord Mayor Dieter Reiter. "But we all know that there can never be absolute security."
There is a security concept for the Wiesn that has been developed over many years. The grounds have been fenced off since 2016. The access roads are blocked by bollards and concrete buckets. Large bags are not allowed, knives and glass bottles are prohibited.
Flight restrictions apply, including for drones. More than 50 video cameras illuminated some dark corners in 2023. Around 600 police officers and around 2200 stewards were deployed. The police and district administration department will present the measures for this year next week.
