Major raid in Steintor: Police fight organized crime!

Major raid in Steintor: Police fight organized crime!

On the night of Sunday, November 16, 2025, the police carried out a comprehensive raid in the Steintorviertel in Hanover. Hundreds of emergency services checked bars, discos and whorehouses in one of the city's oldest and best-known red light districts. According to reports from NDR and Hannover Discover, the identities of 150 people were determined, 60 people were searched and 12 cars were checked. The police paid particular attention to the local bouncers, who are often employed unofficially and have caused numerous conflicts and physical injuries.

A look at the results: The police not only seized several weapons such as batons and irritant sprayers, but also initiated a total of 20 investigations. 12 were reported for violations of the weapons ban zone and 8 for illegal gambling. Five expulsions were given. The investigations aim to combat structured crimes that undermine the rule of law. Police Vice President Stefan Sengel emphasizes that such structures will not be tolerated and that consistent handling is necessary.

Crime focus in the Steintorviertel

Over the years, the Steintorviertel has made a name for itself as a crime hotspot in Hanover. There are a lot of people here, especially on the weekends, which in turn drives up crime rates, despite a predominantly downward trend in crimes in Lower Saxony. The 2023 police crime statistics show that the total number of registered crimes increased by 5.6 percent, while the clearance rate increased to 62.5 percent. Citizens tend to comment positively on the work of the police, although fear of crime is still present.

According to police statistics, bodily harm, drug offenses and trespassing are the most common crimes in the Steintorviertel. The investigations show the growing influence of organized crime, a circumstance that is forcing both the police and the city administration to take action.

Measures to combat crime

In order to meet the increasing challenges, pepper sprays will soon be banned in the Steintorviertel, and a 24-hour ban on certain items is also being considered. These preventative measures are part of a larger plan to improve security in Hanover and restore a feeling of security to citizens.

Local security forces and citizens must work hand in hand to counteract abusive structures. The raid is just one step in a long-term strategy to combat crime that also includes dialogue with the population.

A strong sense of community and a willingness to work together are crucial to eliminating the dark machinations in the Steintorviertel once and for all. While the police have a clear focus on the bouncer scene, combating drug trafficking and the violence associated with it will also play a major role.

The developments in the Steintorviertel, a complex place both in terms of culture and crime, remain exciting. How the situation will ultimately develop remains to be seen, but the police are making it clear that they are determined to ensure security and order.

For more information about the raid and its results, click on the reports from NDR and Discover Hanover. Details on police crime statistics can be found on the website Lower Saxony Ministry.