An Islamist group is said to have planned the attack. Special protective measures have already been introduced.
According to dpa information, security authorities have received information about a possible attack plan by an Islamist group on Cologne Cathedral.
A church in Vienna was also a possible target, it was said. “Bild” had previously reported.
The police had previously announced that special protective measures would be taken due to a warning of danger. Accordingly, worshipers at Cologne Cathedral and tourists will have to prepare for increased security standards in the next few days.
The state security agency, which is active in politically motivated crimes, has started an investigation.
“Even if the reference refers to New Year’s Eve, we will already do everything we can this evening to ensure the safety of cathedral visitors on Christmas Eve. In coordination with the security officer of the cathedral chapter, the cathedral will be searched with sniffer dogs after the evening mass and then locked,” said the head of the Cologne criminal police, Michael Esser, according to the statement. From Christmas Eve onwards, all visitors will be screened before entering the church.
Source: Stern
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