During their investigation into the danger at Cologne Cathedral, the police searched an apartment on Christmas Eve and took several men into custody. Four have now been released, one remains in custody to prevent danger.
The police search with special forces was carried out on Christmas Eve, but has only now become known. Four of the men have now been released, one will remain in custody until at least January 7th to prevent danger. According to the Cologne police, the suspect is a 30-year-old Tajik, about whom there is information relevant to state security.
At the request of the police, the Oberhausen district court Cologne confirmed the order of detention until January 7th. Michael Esser, the head of the Cologne criminal police, emphasized: “We are exhausting all legal options to protect the people, the cathedral and the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations.”
Police officers check visitors to church services at Cologne Cathedral
Security measures at the cathedral until New Year’s Day
According to WDR information, at least six police units will be in action on New Year’s Eve. Security measures will continue to apply in Cologne Cathedral until the New Year. Church services and confessions should still be possible after security checks, but the cathedral will remain largely closed to tourists. There will be no roof tours, tours of the excavations or visits to the treasury or the viewing platform. However, already agreed interior tours will take place.
Sources:
- Press release from the Cologne police
- WDR reporter
We also report on this topic on the WDR radio: WDR 2 News at 7 p.m.