France/Germany: Increased security at the border December 13 /update 5

Event

Local authorities have strengthened controls at border crossings between France and Germany following the December 11 attack in Strasbourg. Control checks are being conducted on roads, cross-border public transportations, as well as on the pedestrian and cyclist bridge, Passerelle des Deux Rives, linking Strasbourg to the German city of Kehl. An increased security presence has also been deployed in German cities located along the French border, such as in Kehl, Iffezheim, Breisach, and Rheinau. Associated transportation disruptions, including significant delays, are expected to affect commuters at border crossing points.

Context

A gunman opened fire on crowds near a Christmas market located on the Grand Île of Strasbourg at approximately 20:00 on December 11, killing at least two people and wounding 14 others. Interior Ministry officials confirmed military troops had been deployed to secure the market and exchanged fire with the gunmen, wounding him, before he reportedly fled. Authorities cordoned off the area surrounding the Neudorf area shortly after the incident. The suspect had previously been flagged for radicalization by French intelligence services and antiterrorism police units have taken over the investigation.

Advice

Individuals in Strasbourg specifically, and France and Germany more generally, are advised to remain vigilant, report all suspicious objects and behavior to the police, anticipate localized transportation disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.