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Offenbach crime wave leaves residents on edge after break-ins and scams

From stolen Rolexes to fake gold rings, Offenbach’s latest crime spree exposes vulnerabilities. Could your neighborhood be next? Police share urgent safety tips.

The image shows a carriageway with vehicles driving on it, a speed limit sign on the side of the...
The image shows a carriageway with vehicles driving on it, a speed limit sign on the side of the road, railings along the sides, grass on the ground, trees in the background, and a clear blue sky above.

Offenbach crime wave leaves residents on edge after break-ins and scams

A series of crimes and incidents have kept police busy in Offenbach and the surrounding area. Over the past week, thefts, scams, and traffic violations were reported across the city. Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and take precautions.

A burglar broke into a multi-family home on Landstraße, stealing a Rolex watch and causing around €1,000 in damage. Meanwhile, unknown intruders targeted an apartment on Hermannstraße, taking a wall safe, cash, and cosmetic products. Investigators are working to identify the suspects and determine how they entered the property.

In a separate incident, a store detective stopped a planned theft of sweets worth about €500. A 33-year-old man now faces criminal charges for attempted theft, though his accomplice remains at large. Elsewhere, a 26-year-old woman in Obertshausen was scammed after buying what she believed was a gold ring for €50—only to discover it was fake. An 83-year-old woman reported being robbed by three unknown women at the Frankfurter Straße mall. Her wallet, containing cash, ID, and bank cards, was taken from her walker’s basket. Police have also warned of repeated thefts from unlocked vehicles by so-called 'car door testers', who pull on door handles in search of easy targets. A blue BMW 3 Series caught fire in a parking lot on Bertolt Brecht Street, burning completely and causing roughly €20,000 in damage. The cause remains under investigation. During speed checks on Bundesstraße 448, officers recorded 109 violations. Two drivers, caught at 145 km/h and 144 km/h, now face €600 fines, two points on their licences, and a two-month driving ban. Police have issued safety tips: always lock vehicles, hide valuables, remove navigation devices, and report suspicious activity to neighbours or authorities.

Authorities continue to investigate the incidents, including the apartment break-in, the BMW fire, and the scam involving the fake ring. Residents are reminded to secure their belongings and remain alert to prevent further crimes. The police press office will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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