Berlin Police Advise Caution for Jews and LGBTQ+ in Certain Areas
Police Chief Barbara Slowik warns of increased antisemitism and advises vigilance in neighborhoods with significant Arab populations.
- Berlin's police chief Barbara Slowik has advised Jews and LGBTQ+ individuals to be cautious in specific city areas, citing open antisemitism and hostility.
- Slowik emphasized that while there are no 'no-go' zones, certain neighborhoods with predominantly Arab residents may pose risks due to sympathies for terrorist groups.
- Since the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, over 6,200 investigations into antisemitic incidents have been launched by Berlin police.
- Most investigations involve hate speech online and property damage, with 1,300 cases related to violence, primarily during protests.
- Despite the rise in incidents, violent crimes against Jews remain relatively low, though the community's fear and concern persist.