Darmstadt Police crack down on cross-border burglary gangs in overnight raid
Darmstadt Police conducted a large-scale operation late on Thursday night to combat cross-border crime. Between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., officers performed vehicle and person checks, targeting traveling criminal groups linked to residential burglaries. The effort also aimed to disrupt wider criminal networks in the region.
The operation took place along Federal Highway 26 near Ostbahnhof, where a stationary checkpoint was established. Officers inspected 42 vehicles and 65 individuals during the three-hour period. One vehicle was discovered with illegal modifications, while three drivers were penalized for not wearing seatbelts.
Seven preliminary drug tests were conducted, but none returned positive results. Police also reminded drivers of the importance of seatbelt use in preventing serious injuries during accidents. This latest action follows a broader investigation announced in January 2021. Authorities in Darmstadt targeted organized crime groups, including Italian mafia clans like the Pesce and Nirta-Strangio families, the Dutch Mocro-Mafia, and Turkish drug cartels. The ongoing operations seek to deter burglars and maintain pressure on criminal networks operating in southern Hesse. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant by reporting suspicious behavior and securing their homes. Police stress that community cooperation plays a key role in reducing opportunities for theft.
The checks resulted in minor offenses but reinforced the police presence against cross-border crime. Authorities continue to monitor criminal activity in the area, with further operations expected. The focus remains on disrupting traveling burglary groups and strengthening public safety measures.
