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Dramatic crime: Cable thieves plunder Querfurt!
Crimes such as cable theft and bodily harm are increasing in the Saale district. Police are investigating several cases.
Dramatic crime: Cable thieves plunder Querfurt!
In recent weeks, a repeated increase in thefts in the Querfurt area has caused concern. Between June 3rd and 24th, 2025, several hundred meters of power cables were stolen from an unfenced area that houses disused railway tracks. These cables were originally intended to illuminate the area and add up to an estimated property damage of around 20,000 euros. The police have already filed a criminal complaint, interviewed witnesses and are continuing to investigate in order to bring the unknown perpetrators to account, reports Sachsen-Anhalt.de.
As it turns out, cable thefts are not an isolated incident. Over 40 similar cases were reported in Leipzig and the surrounding area in the spring and summer of 2024 alone electrive.net reported. The perpetrators cut or sawed off cables from fast charging stations in order to sell the valuable copper. Depending on the length and copper content, a single cable can be sold for around 50 euros. But the damage for the operators adds up, as the repair costs can be up to 7,000 euros and the repair often takes several weeks, which in turn leads to loss of sales.
Physical injuries and other incidents in Merseburg
But it's not just thefts that make headlines. There were also several assault offenses in Merseburg. On Tuesday afternoon, a 44-year-old reported assault after he was attacked by an unknown, large male person on Thomas-Münzer-Straße. The injured person complained of pain and was taken to the Merseburg Clinic for further treatment.
That same evening there was an argument between neighbors on Heinrich-Heine-Straße. A 40-year-old was injured and a shoe rack was also damaged. A 41-year-old who was heavily intoxicated turned out to be a suspect. Cannabis plants were even discovered in his apartment.
Crime statistics and prevention
The latest reports show that crime in Germany is steadily increasing. In 2022, around 5.63 million crimes were recorded, including 1.78 million thefts. This is an alarming trend that can also be felt in North Rhine-Westphalia with over 23,500 residential burglaries, which accounts for over 35% of the cases nationwide, such as statista.com reports.
What is particularly striking is the increase in shoplifting, which is at the top with 344,669 reported cases. There was also a noticeable increase in theft from motor vehicles, with 235,732 cases. Police have already taken countermeasures, including installing cameras and working with charging station operators to prevent future thefts.
It remains to be hoped that the investigations in Querfurt and Merseburg will quickly clarify the incidents and that the perpetrators will be caught quickly. The public is encouraged to be vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately to restore safety and calm to our community.