Fusion Festival in Lärz: Police take tough conclusions after drug incidents

Fusion Festival in Lärz: Police take tough conclusions after drug incidents

The 26th Fusion Festival in Lärz ended on July 1, 2025 and once again attracted around 70,000 guests. Even though the mood was predominantly peaceful, there was a significant increase in police interventions. By the end of the festival, the police had recorded a total of 152 reports, which suggests a less than positive picture. What was particularly noticeable was that 88 festival visitors were under the influence of narcotics, while three were driving under the influence of alcohol.

As part of the checks, 36 reports of drug trafficking were filed. Of particular concern was the incident of a festival-goer in medically critical condition, who had to be hospitalized on Friday. The connection to drugs is currently being investigated. Another incident involved a 30-year-old who caused property damage to a residential building through drug use and had to be taken to a hospital by the police.

Safe arrival and departure

To ensure the safety of visitors, there was an increased police presence both on arrival and departure. There were occasional traffic jams at the entrances to the festival site, but thanks to the organization by the organizer and the use of around 1,500 coaches, the journey was made efficient. The federal police also ensured smooth travel at Neustrelitz main station and at the Kratzeburg stop.

Of the visitors, around 7,200 arrived by train, while around 6,300 were counted on departure. However, these numbers were below the previous year. The safety of rail customers was always monitored by around 220 officers every day and random checks were carried out.

Drug problems at festivals

As in previous years, drug consumption was a central issue. During the checks, drugs with a street value of 18,000 euros were ultimately seized. One particularly alarming discovery involved 1.8kg of fruit gums that may have been laced with cocaine, which led to an investigation. The police initiated a total of 19 criminal proceedings for violations of the Narcotics Act and executed six arrest warrants.

Drug use at festivals should not be underestimated and can pose serious health risks, as the website Gugugaga reports. In addition to overheating, serious heart problems or psychological consequences can also occur. In order to minimize the health risks for festival visitors, events are required to take safety precautions such as immediate drug testing or providing water stations.

The police and the organizers thanked the visitors for their understanding and cooperation. Despite the incidents, it is hoped that future festivals can be made safer and healthier so that the joys of the music world can be enjoyed without health concerns.