Berlin parents asked to rein in kids to avoid repeat of New Year's Eve unrest

Police in Berlin have sent out a letter to local parents, asking for their help to keep things calm in the capital on New Year’s Eve. Two years ago, major unrest in the city made national headlines and is still causing concern among some local residents. 

Berlin parents asked to “set a good example” to children

The letter, which was sent out to some parents via a handful of schools in the city, asks parents to “talk to your children and set a good example”, Spiegel reports. Parents are requested to look after their kids and “prevent them from committing violent acts.” 

The letter goes on to state that firecrackers, gas and blank-firing weapons should not be in the hands of children and “must not be used on New Year’s Eve”. It also warns that setting off fireworks improperly can cause injuries. 

New Year’s Eve in 2022 saw riots in Berlin

Two years ago, riots broke out in Berlin on New Year’s Eve, with rioters targeting and attacking police officers, firefighters and paramedics. There were reports of fire engines being “lured” into ambushes and having fireworks and stones thrown at them. At least 280 attacks on the emergency services were reported. The majority of those arrested in connection with the unrest were under the age of 21. 

This year, Berlin is deploying around 3.000 police officers in the days around New Year’s Eve, and a further 1.500 emergency personnel. No fireworks zones will be in operation at Alexanderplatz, on Sonnenallee and Steinmetzstrasse.