Luxembourg's Interior Minister Reports 2,363 Police Checks in City Neighborhoods

From January to late April 2024, Luxembourg's police conducted a series of comprehensive checks across various neighborhoods, resulting in 2,363 controls, as reported by Interior Minister Léon Gloden. These operations aimed to enhance security and address residents' concerns.

During this period, police identified 28 cases of irregular identification documents and found eight individuals unlawfully present in Luxembourg. Traffic violations were also a significant focus, with 212 recorded instances. Additionally, four penalty notices were issued for begging, including one involving former Green Party leader Christian Kmiotek, who reported himself.

Minister Gloden highlighted the success of four major operations conducted in the Gare neighborhood. These operations were part of a broader initiative to increase police presence and reassure citizens. In a parliamentary response to MP Meris Šehović of the Green Party, Gloden described the initiative as 'a resounding success.'

The increased police presence has significantly impacted the Gare district, where residents had expressed concerns about drug use, squatting, prostitution, theft, and physical violence. In response to these concerns, police carried out four major operations against drug trafficking, resulting in the arrest of 70 drug traffickers, including 48 in the Gare district.

Why this matters: The increased police presence and controls in Luxembourg's neighborhoods have significant implications for public safety and security. The success of these operations could lead to a reduction in crime rates and improved quality of life for residents.

Between January 15 and April 30, police discovered 30 cases of individuals wanted for offences and 24 cases of identity theft and forged documents. Additionally, they identified eight cases of people staying in Luxembourg without the necessary permissions, and two individuals were taken into deportation custody.

The ban on begging in certain streets of Luxembourg City has been a contentious issue. Some argue it lacks legal basis and diverts police resources from other tasks. Justice Minister Elisabeth Margue plans to decriminalize simple begging and clarify terms such as organized and aggressive begging.

Overall, the increased police presence and efforts have contributed to a sense of security in the targeted areas, addressing concerns raised by residents. The operations have been deemed successful in mitigating issues related to drug trafficking and other crimes, particularly in the Gare district.

Key Takeaways

• Luxembourg police conducted 2,363 checks, identifying 28 irregular IDs and 8 unlawful residents.
• 212 traffic violations and 4 begging cases, including 1 involving a former Green Party leader, were recorded.
• Four major operations in Gare neighborhood resulted in 70 drug trafficker arrests, including 48 in Gare.
• Police presence increased in targeted areas, addressing resident concerns and improving public safety.
• Justice Minister plans to decriminalize simple begging and clarify organized and aggressive begging terms.