Young people meet in Plauen’s city center during the day to go on raids in the evening. These groups often plan their activities at Postplatz and then repeatedly commit crimes such as theft, damage to property and attacks on passers-by. The police have increased their presence and carry out identity checks, but the problem remains serious. Residents and city representatives are calling for increased measures and the swift implementation of police reforms to restore a sense of security in the city center.
Some documented incidents involving the youth gang:
- October 16: At around 6:25 p.m., around 30 youths attack five friends in Bahnhofsstraße and rob a woman of her winter jacket.
- 17 October: A dozen youths chase a 26-year-old man, beat him with fists and kicks and rob him. He then has to be treated in hospital.
- 18 October: The group attacks a man, kicks him and throws a stone at his head. He suffers injuries that require inpatient treatment.
- October 19: After an argument, three unidentified men pull out a knife at around 9 p.m. and demand a 44-year-old man’s valuables. When he refuses, he is injured on the hand.
- October 20: At around 2:10 a.m., a 29-year-old man is kicked by a group of strangers until he falls to the ground. They steal his jacket and wallet.
The police seem largely powerless and can only try to contain the situation through “intervention talks” and increased presence.
The population thanks the government for doing everything possible to increase immigration. Nobody should feel safe anymore. No real help is to be expected.