Schützenfest in Hanover: Police officer victim of sexual harassment!

Schützenfest in Hanover: Police officer victim of sexual harassment!

on Sunday, July 10, 2025, regrettable events occurred at the shooting march in Hanover. Two men, 33 and 43 years old, are said to have kissed a police officer on his cheeks. This assault was made against the will of the official, who was used to secure the festive move. After the incident, the men continued their way with the march, which indicates terrifying indifference to the events. The two alleged perpetrators are members of the "Hildesheimer bachelor company" and were checked by emergency services a short time later. However, a breath alcohol test was rejected. As a result, criminal proceedings for sexual harassment against the men are now being initiated. The background of these acts have so far been unclear, but according to the NDR it is an isolated case; Similar incidents against police officers during the shooting festival are not yet known.

With around 180,000 people celebrating and around 100 music bands, the shooting festival plays a central role in the region. A happy cooperation is celebrated for the period until July 13, 2025 - or at least it should. In addition to the incidents mentioned, a 21-year-old was also displayed in Ebstorf who pressed a woman and has resisted the police. Such events throw a shadow on the otherwise happy festival and are in contrast to the general joy that should prevail these days.

an increase in incidents and the dark field

The social discussion about sexual harassment and violence is heated again by these incidents. Data show that sexual offenses in Germany have been getting up for years. In 2024, a new high of around 128,000 cases was reached. The number of unreported cases could be much higher, since many victims of fear of guilt or shame often do not file a complaint. A look at the statistics makes it clear that young women between the ages of 14 and 20 in particular are often affected. The high proportion of female victims is not only alarming, but can also be understood as an expression of gender -specific violence. The focus is on rape, where about 94 percent of victims are women, as well as child abuse, where girls are most affected.

In this regard, it is incomprehensible that such incidents as they passed during the rifle march are not perceived as serious problems. The need to rethink traditional thinking about power and sexual needs is greater than ever. Even if these are isolated cases, as the police emphasize, it is to be hoped that the public and security forces will take active measures to prevent such attacks in the future.

Ultimately, the question remains how we deal with such incidents as a company. The rifle march should be a festival of joy, but we also have to have the courage to address uncomfortable topics and to work together on solutions.