German Carnival Begins Under Heightened Security Following Islamic State Threats

Authorities deploy thousands of officers and implement strict measures to ensure safety at Cologne and Düsseldorf celebrations after online threats surface.

• Germany's Rhineland Carnival, a six-day festival culminating on Rose Monday, has commenced with increased security measures following threats linked to the Islamic State (IS).
• Police have deployed over 9,900 officers across North Rhine-Westphalia, with 1,500 stationed in Cologne alone, alongside barriers and enhanced bag and knife checks.
• IS-linked propaganda called for attacks on specific locations, including Cologne's Alter Markt, but authorities believe the threats are intended to unsettle the public rather than indicate imminent danger.
• Recent attacks in Munich, Solingen, and Aschaffenburg have heightened the overall security situation, with some smaller towns canceling parades due to the cost of increased safety measures.
• Cologne Mayor Henriette Reker urged citizens to celebrate without fear, emphasizing resilience against terrorism and the importance of maintaining cultural traditions.

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