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Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg Tighten Christmas Market Security After Magdeburg Attack

New anti-vehicle measures drive steep costs during the ongoing Magdeburg trial.

Overview

  • A dpa survey finds cities prioritizing access protection with mobile barriers and stronger on-site security in the run-up to the season.
  • Halle reports about €600,000 for access-protection systems, Dessau-Roßlau about €450,000, Wernigerode about €300,000, and Quedlinburg about €100,000 this year plus a planned €300,000 for permanent street furniture.
  • Magdeburg initially added over 240 concrete barriers, including 110 new blocks, after spending €250,000, with costs expected to rise due to a dispute over its security concept.
  • Operating expenses are climbing sharply, with Halberstadt citing roughly 1,000% higher security costs and Wernigerode expecting 20–30% higher personnel costs, while many authorities withhold specifics for safety reasons.
  • Brandenburg organizers detail coordinated plans with police and fire services—Cottbus cites a comprehensive concept, Potsdam says it is investing over €250,000, Brandenburg an der Havel will fence the market with bollards, and Spreewald focuses on crowd management—while the Magdeburg defendant’s trial continues.