Brandstiffer in Hohenschönhausen: Police beats back!

Brandstiffer in Hohenschönhausen: Police beats back!

On the night of June 27, 2025, a suspected arsonist was arrested in Alt-Hohenschönhausen. The police of Section 31 acted as part of a joint operation of the police section 34 to combat arson in motor vehicles that have increased significantly in Berlin in recent years. Witnesses reported that a man fell on a Land Rover shortly before 11 p.m. before the vehicle went up in flames. While the fire brigade deleted the fire, the suspect fled with a bike.

On the basis of the description of the man, the emergency services of the police section 31 went into the area and a little later a 25-year-old arrested. During his search, gloves that smelled after petrol and a lighter were found. Witnesses were able to recognize the arrested man. He was taken into police custody to determine his identity and is to be handed over to the fire commissioner of the State Criminal Police Office, which leads the further investigations. An arrest warrant against the 25-year-old is requested.

arson in Berlin: A growing problem

The current events are part of a worrying trend in Berlin. According to a report by rbb24 , 422 investigations were initiated on fire foundations on cars in 2024, which represents a maximum in recent years. Effective structures to combat this type of crime often seem to be missing, since perpetrators are rarely caught.

In addition, the Lichtenberger register shows that a series of arson attacks in Berlin-Lichtenberg has been committed since 2022, which can be assigned at least 20 fires. Those affected also include facilities that accommodate refugees. In May 2023, one of the four suspects were on trial, with witnesses reporting an extremely right worldview of the accused. Despite such incidents, the police are challenged in the course of the problem of racism and extremism.

uncertainty in the population

The repeated arson, especially in Hohenschönhausen, have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. Residents affected by racism feel increasingly threatened. The commitment of various organizations such as mobile advice against right -wing extremism Berlin (MBR) and the Lichtenberger Register tries to sensitize the population and to provide support for those affected. These initiatives ask the citizens to be attentive and to inform the responsible bodies in the event of racist or extreme right incidents.

The civil society support offers are important, not only for those directly affected, but also for the community in order to formulate a solidarity answer to extremism. The awareness of the need to report and condemn such acts is higher than ever.