Dresden in danger: Security expert criticizes protective measures for events

Dresden in danger: Security expert criticizes protective measures for events

In the city of Dresden there has been a heated discussion about the protection of events for months. These debates have become more urgent after the threat rating was increased due to recent attacks. This not only means increased security awareness, but also significantly higher costs, most of which the city intends to pass on to the organizers. A security expert from a federal agency, who wishes to remain anonymous, expresses clear criticism of the current protective measures in the Elbe city. Sächsische.de reports that the expert has a certificate in access protection and has extensive experience in this area.

A central point of criticism is the positioning of the vehicle barriers, especially at the Altmarkt and at events at the Goldener Reiter. The expert describes that these barriers are set up far too close to the event site and injuries could result from flying debris. He advocates a change in placement in which the barriers should be further away from possible access routes. In addition, the height of the elements used, specifically the Citysafe, is considered inadequate. These are simply not high enough to effectively stop a truck, for example.

Alternative security solutions at a glance

One proposal to improve security is the mobile vehicle barriers, such as the ARMIS ONE product, which was certified according to relevant standards in July 2024. This ensures a penetration depth of 8.3 meters and has proven itself in crash tests with heavy vehicles. Due to these properties, the vehicle barrier can be placed closer to the event site, which is particularly advantageous when space is limited. Loud Consel Group The smaller penetration depth maximizes the space for sales stands and restaurants.

It was also shown that many of the water barriers currently in use could become dangerous at a critical moment. In the event of an accident, they could burst and flood the area with water, which would not only cause damage but also pose other safety risks.

Unclear responsibilities and responsibilities

The city administration faces another challenge: handing over responsibility for terrorist protection to the organizers. This is a sensitive issue because, according to the expert, this task is being delegated worryingly by the city, which acts as both the organizer and is responsible for protection. There is a great deal of ambiguity here, which is also visible in the cooperation between the city and the police. Although the police provide risk assessments, specific statements about organizational security concepts are often missing.

It is all the more important that the roles and tasks in the planning and implementation of events in Dresden are clearly defined. Recommendations from the police and coordination with the public order office are relied upon, but there are often gaps in the security organization. TÜV Nord explains the legal basis and the mandatory tasks that an event management and knowledgeable supervisors must take on.

Urgent action is needed to prevent future incidents and ensure safety for everyone involved. In a city so rich in cultural events, safety should never come second.