Fulda takes stock: Weapons ban zone ensures more security!

Fulda takes stock: Weapons ban zone ensures more security!

In Fulda, the introduction of the weapons ban zone in the city center has received consistently positive feedback since its introduction six months ago. This decision, which has been in force since March 1, 2025, is intended to increase citizens' sense of security. That reports FFH.

The weapons ban zone extends from the train station to the cathedral and also includes the lively bar district and the entire route of the Rose Monday parade. It prohibits the carrying of firearms, knives and other massive objects. Only craftsmen who need tools such as carpet knives are exempt from this ban, explains Hesse show.

Summary of the first months

The first six months of the weapons ban zone are having an impact: During this period, 791 people were checked and 22 arrests were made, including on the basis of existing arrest warrants. The police also registered 15 violations of the regulation in which weapons were confiscated - including 13 knives, an air rifle and a PTB weapon. The complaint rate was 1.88 percent. Police spokesman Marc Leipold notes that most people respect the regulations, which gives the police confidence.

What is particularly pleasing is the fact that no high-profile violent crimes have been recorded in the area of ​​the weapons ban zone since the incident. The increased police presence has demonstrably contributed to improving the subjective feeling of security among the population, as numerous positive feedback shows.

Overview of other cities

The discussion about gun ban zones is not new. After a horrific knife attack in Solingen in which three people died and eight were injured, several federal states began to consider taking similar measures. In Hesse, where Fulda is considered a pioneer, there are already other cities with such zones, including Frankfurt, Wiesbaden and Kassel. A weapons ban zone was also introduced in Bad Hersfeld at the beginning of February daily news reported.

But not everyone is convinced of the effectiveness of these measures. Critics warn of an “inflationary introduction” of gun ban zones without clear criteria for their introduction and abolition. Even though cities like Hamburg reported a slight increase in crimes, there are examples like Kiel, where the introduction of the zone was accompanied by a decrease in property-related crimes.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the weapons ban zone in Fulda can initially be viewed as a step in the right direction. However, the long term shows whether these measures actually lead to a sustainable improvement in safety. Local policing and the associated feeling of security are the focus and could make an important contribution to combating crime.