Fight against drugs: Bremen's SPD is planning a massive increase in security in Bremerhaven!

Fight against drugs: Bremen's SPD is planning a massive increase in security in Bremerhaven!

The Bremen SPD parliamentary group has joined forces to declare war on drug smuggling in Bremerhaven. It is already clear that the port city has been targeted by criminal networks, which not only affects local security but also influences the perception of the port in the international drug trafficking landscape. “We have to take measures to deter drug criminals,” demands parliamentary group leader Mustafa Güngör. n-tv.de reports.

The SPD's proposals include increasing the number of customs officers and installing additional X-ray systems for containers. More targeted searches should also help make drug smuggling more difficult. These challenges are not new: In 2023, around 1.8 tons of cocaine were confiscated in Bremen customs, and another 400 kilos went to the authorities the year before. ZDF highlights that security precautions in other European ports such as Antwerp and Rotterdam have recently been tightened. Since then, fears have been growing that the drug smugglers are retreating to Bremerhaven.

International cooperation in focus

In order to combat the impending increase in drug smuggling in Bremerhaven, international cooperation should not be neglected. In a rescheduled meeting on November 29, 2023, Belgian Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden will present the creation of a European Port Alliance against drug trafficking and organized crime in Antwerp. Around 20 European ports, including Hamburg and Bremerhaven, will be invited to work together to harmonize their security measures and improve information sharing , said the SWP.

The situation shows how important coordinated action in Europe against the “cocaine glut” has become. In addition to the ports already mentioned, other countries in the EU have also taken measures to control drug flows. In 2022, a total of 14.4 tons of cocaine were seized in Germany, with Hamburg recording the largest amount at 9.7 tons. However, Bremerhaven does not go unnoticed - 600 kilograms were seized there as part of a major search in 2023
( ZDF ).

The challenges of the security authorities

Another key issue is the challenges security agencies face in identifying snoopers and smugglers. Criminals use modern methods to smuggle drugs into containers and infiltrate shipping companies or bribe port employees. It is therefore crucial that technological solutions and private security services are integrated into security strategies in order to break through crime structures says the SWP.

The Bremen SPD has already taken the first steps to protect dock workers in their daily work. Managing director of bremenports, Robert Howe, confirmed that security measures need to be strengthened to ensure a safe working environment. No one should have to be afraid in their job while keeping the city safe.

With a variety of planned measures and a look at international cooperation, it will become clear whether Bremerhaven is better equipped to combat the increased pressure of drug smuggling. The goal remains clear: the city should not be perceived as an easy target for drug-related crime. If the picture does not change, it could become difficult in the near future to prevent criminal networks from continuing to operate their businesses undisturbed.