Six Arrested After Breaking Into Cologne Cathedral's North Tower

Police detained five French men and a Belgian woman following a late-night breach involving property damage and climbing equipment.

The suspects, aged 18 to 27, were caught in the cathedral's North Tower stairwell early Sunday morning after being detected by a private surveillance system.
Police discovered broken doors and backpacks containing climbing gear during their search of the site.
Confiscated items from one suspect included a camera, a mobile phone, and a lock pick tool, which are now part of the investigation evidence.
The Kriminalpolizei is investigating the group for trespassing and property damage, with forensic follow-up underway.
This incident follows a February 2025 security scare at the Cologne Cathedral, raising concerns about the site's vulnerability to breaches.