Overview

• An Insa survey commissioned by the AfD faction found 62 percent of Baden-Württemberg residents doubt knife ban zones can sustainably prevent attacks.
• Official crime data show knife attacks in public spaces rose by 3.2 percent to about 1,300 cases in 2024, while suspects increased by 7.3 percent to roughly 1,240 individuals.
• Stuttgart, Mannheim, Heilbronn, Heidelberg and Ulm have established knife prohibition areas, and an April decree extended the ban to buses, trains and public events.
• Interior Minister Thomas Strobl calls the zones an important safety measure but warns they are no panacea for growing knife violence.
• German Police Union head Ralf Kusterer says effective deterrence depends on regular, targeted checks but warns police lack both resources and clear responsibility for enforcement.