Burglaries in Brandenburg fire stations: Red alert for the rescuers!

Burglaries in Brandenburg fire stations: Red alert for the rescuers!

In recent years there has been an alarming increase in break-ins at fire stations in Brandenburg. In 2024 alone, 37 burglary attempts were registered, 16 of which were successful. In previous years the numbers ranged between 19 and 26, making the current situation even more worrying. East Brandenburg is particularly affected, where a total of twelve burglaries were recorded in 2024. The amount of damage in these cases amounts to a mid-five-figure amount, which not only puts a strain on the fire brigades' financial resources, but also endangers their ability to operate. rbb24 reports that the burglars are primarily targeting expensive emergency equipment such as hydraulic spreaders and scissors, which are essential for emergency services.

A particularly bold case occurred on the night of Saturday, June 18, 2025, when unknown perpetrators broke into the fire station in Schwedt and stole important rescue technology. According to a fire department spokesman, these are hydraulic scissors and spreaders that are necessary to free trapped people from vehicles that have been involved in an accident. The material damage caused is estimated at around 25,000 euros. Tagesschau explains that the East Police Department has started investigating theft in a particularly serious case. The trend towards such targeted break-ins continues as the devices are very popular with criminals.

Security vulnerabilities and organized crime

The increase in burglaries not only highlights a major security problem, but has also led to the emergence of organized crime. Police spokesman Kamenz pointed out that well-organized gangs were behind these crimes. Last year, four suspects who were said to be responsible for several break-ins at fire stations in Berlin and Brandenburg were caught. [Berliner Zeitung](https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/mensch-metropole/clan- criminal-bedienen-sich-an-geraeten-der-berliner-feuerwehr-li.383123) emphasizes that hydraulic devices in particular can be used for both rescue and criminal purposes, including when breaking into cash-in-transit vehicles.

Another problem is the inadequate security in many fire stations. There are repeated calls to improve security measures and spend more money. Representatives of the fire department and trade unions point out that many of the properties in Berlin and Brandenburg are not adequately secured and recommended measures such as better lighting, alarm systems and video surveillance have not been implemented across the board. Chief fire inspector Oliver Mertens is therefore calling for comprehensive security and alarm technology for all fire stations.

Measures and recommendations

The police have already taken steps and are offering fire departments free advice on burglary protection. Recommended protective measures include technical and electronic security devices, reinforced windows and doors, and GPS trackers on devices. These preventative steps are crucial to ensure the operational capability of fire departments and the safety of citizens. In view of the increasing number of burglaries and the relevance of this rescue technology, action is required quickly.