Violence in Gesundbrunnen: Union calls for a strict ban on knives!

Violence in Gesundbrunnen: Union calls for a strict ban on knives!

On Saturday evening there were violent clashes in Berlin-Gesundbrunnen, which were expected not only for those present, but also for the police. A 30-year-old was tragically killed by a stab wound in these incidents, while between 40 and 60 people took part in the incident. The massive deployment of the police highlighted the threat that apparently exists in the neighborhood. In view of such incidents, the police union (GdP) is calling for comprehensive consequences, including a general ban on knives in public spaces. Stephan Weh, the state chairman of the GdP, expresses concern about the spread of knives among young men and calls for measures to be taken as quickly as possible to curb the violence.

In light of the recent violent incidents in Berlin, a new ban comes into force on Thursday that prohibits the carrying of knives and other weapons on all Berlin S-Bahn, subway, buses and train stations. This was decided by the Berlin Senate and is due to the increasing number of knife cases, which were registered at 3,412 last year. What is particularly alarming is that around half of these incidents involved threats, underscoring the need for such a ban. The consequences demanded by the GdP seem to fall on fertile ground, because Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD) emphasizes how important this ban is in combating violent crime.

Details about the new knife ban

The ban, which came into force on July 17, 2025, is part of a comprehensive regulation intended to increase safety in public transport. It includes all types of knives as well as blank guns, irritants and signal weapons. Exceptions only apply to certain professional groups, such as the police, fire brigade and catering industry, who have to carry knives with them for professional reasons. However, newly purchased and packaged knives may still be carried on these means of transport.

The police are authorized to carry out checks regardless of suspicion, and anything found, such as knives or pepper spray, will be confiscated. Violations of the ban constitute administrative offenses and can be punished with fines of up to 10,000 euros. Repeated violations can even result in the loss of your driving license if there are doubts about your character suitability. Until now, carrying weapons and knives was only prohibited in certain Berlin parks, but the need to expand such regulations is evident, as almost 100 knives have been confiscated in Görlitzer Park since the ban was introduced.

The urgent goal of these measures is clear: a safe space for the citizens of Berlin, especially in public transport and train stations. The upcoming checks and educating passengers about the new regulations will be communicated in the coming days to ensure that all transport users are informed about the restrictions.

Further information on the topic is continually provided in order to raise awareness among the population. The political landscape also has a lot to do with the question of how safety in public spaces can be sustainably improved.

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