Vandalism drama: State operetta burns down-who is to blame?

Vandalism drama: State operetta burns down-who is to blame?

In Dresden it is bubbling: The old state operetta has recently drawn not only unpleasant attention for vandalism and theft, but also through a devastating fire that broke out at the end of May 2025. The incident raised many questions about security and chronology of events. It seems that the citizens' initiative, which has been active since December 2023, has set up a lot to document and inform the city.

In the building, the initiative's first inspection not only lost heavy technology equipment such as copper cables, copper pipes and radiators, but also discovered fire sets and smaller bangs. The initiative reports that a member saw an open window and watched young people inside. Also a video that documents the fire in the auditorium raises questions: was this the result of a willful arson? John Pietzko, a committed member of the group, noticed the smell of fire during his control and saw flames in the main hall. Actually, after numerous warnings, the initiative, such as a lack of video surveillance and securing rounds, had only done a little.

security problems and falling alert readiness

The police investigation is now also aimed at possible youth gangs, but without concrete suspicion against perpetrators. The extent to which the city has fulfilled its responsibility remains questionable. The initiative had pointed out the precarious situation several times - but so far without noticeable changes. Now Rainer Kempe plans to save parts of the damaged building and possibly revive the state operetta. The auditorium and the roof structure probably suffered serious damage. A possible use of the cloakroom construction and the head building for creative projects would certainly do the city's community spirit.

A look at the arson in Germany

According to the Federal Criminal Police Office, numerous cases of arson are being created annually. From 2014 to 2024 the numbers rose alarming. In 2024, a significant increase was determined compared to previous years, which only increases the concern about youth crime and insufficient prevention measures by the authorities. The data that was compiled by April 2025 clearly show that arson is no longer the sole individual case, but a symptom of deeper social problems.

In this tense situation, the question arises as to how future incidents such as the fire in the old state operetta can be prevented. In order to underline the urgency of the security measures, the time has now come to finally take appropriate steps. The time of watching must definitely be over when it comes to protecting the cultural treasures of Dresden.