Bicycle thefts in Berlin: Every second wheel disappears!

Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg recorded almost 3,500 bicycle thefts in 2025. New data shed light on the problem in Berlin.
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg recorded almost 3,500 bicycle thefts in 2025. New data shed light on the problem in Berlin. (Symbolbild/NAGW)

Bicycle thefts in Berlin: Every second wheel disappears!

bicycle thefts are a widespread problem in Berlin. A current report emphasizes the alarming number of stolen bicycles and the associated economic damage. A total of 24,209 bicycles were stolen last year, which resulted in damage of around 33 million euros, such as Berlin Live reported.

The Mitte district leads the list of thefts, with almost 4,000 reported cases. Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg follows in second place with almost 3,500 thefts. Other districts that record high numbers are Pankow and Prenzlauer Berg with 2,750 thefts and Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf with 2,581 thefts. In contrast, the outskirts have significantly lower numbers. Marzahn-Hellersdorf only has 547 thefts, Spandau 568 and Reinickendorf 846.

dangerous neighborhood and inadequate security measures

The analysis of the most dangerous neighborhood for bicycle thefts shows that Alt-Treptow with 288 thefts and the wrangle kiez in Kreuzberg are particularly affected with 248 cases. The Oranienburger Straße in Mitte (216 thefts) and the Charitéviertel (210 thefts) are also hotspots. Alexanderplatz and the Chamissoplatz record 201 the thefts. Benjamin Jendro, spokesman for the police union, draws attention to the low information rate and demands more video surveillance as well as better attachment and closing opportunities for bicycles.

The data on the current situation of bicycle thefts in Berlin are supported by the police course statistics, which offers valuable insights into regional differences and temporal patterns. These statistics help to analyze unsecured bicycles and thefts from cellars or attics so that targeted countermeasures can be taken. Visualizations and choiropletic cards make it easier to understand the situation and make it clear the spatial distribution of the thefts, as can be seen from Odis Berlin

trends and changes in bicycle theft

statistical data prove a significant increase in bicycle thefts in recent years. Between 2014 and 2024, these rose exponentially in Germany. An increase in men's bicycles was particularly striking, while children's bicycles are less frequently stolen. Daily peaks in most theft cases were found around 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., which underlines the need for better security strategies. This information is also available on Statista that offer different formats for download for registered users.

The number of unreported cases could even be higher because not all incidents are displayed. Without comprehensive recording and visibility in the city society, it is difficult to improve security for cyclists. It remains to be hoped that the data collected will support both urban planners and security authorities in order to improve the situation.

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OrtFriedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Deutschland
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