Burglary in refrigerated trailer: Police ask for information in churches!

Burglary in refrigerated trailer: Police ask for information in churches!

During the Christmas season, Cologne not only shows its festive side, but also its criminal side. On December 22, 2025, an attempted burglary was reported from a refrigerated trailer in a parking lot on Jungsthaler Strasse in Kirchen (Sieg). Unknown perpetrators broke the padlock on the refrigerated trailer between Saturday, December 20th, 1 p.m. and Monday, December 22nd, 4:30 a.m. Fortunately, the meat and sausage products stored in the trailer remained untouched, but the thieves stole the padlock and a power cable from the trailer. The Betzdorf police station has already started the investigation and is asking for information from witnesses by calling 02741 926-0 or by email pibetzdorf@polizei.rlp.de.

But Cologne is not alone in this regard. Similar incidents recently occurred in other German cities. The Augsburger Allgemeine reported on the shocking theft of 20 grilled chickens and 80 cans of drinks from a refrigerated food truck in Kornwestheim. Here, too, the perpetrators gained entry by force by bending the locking bolts of the refrigerator truck door. The police say that the exact damage is still unclear, but they estimate the value of the stolen goods at around 180 euros. A trendy theft that once again highlights the brazen manner in which criminals operate.

Theft is trending

However, the number of retail thefts has risen sharply in recent years. As WDR reports, the daily loss of goods in retail amounts to around 13 million euros. High-quality, small-sized products, alcohol, and foods such as cheese and sausage are very popular with thieves. What is worrying is that almost three quarters of thefts are committed by ordinary customers, causing huge damage of around three billion euros annually.

Organized crime has also specialized in retail theft and often works on a division of labor, which is done through diversionary tactics and the targeted collection of stolen goods. Tragically, it's not just customers who are the culprits; Employees and service providers are also significantly involved in the theft.

Security situation in trade

The affected retailers are increasingly feeling compelled to invest in security measures in order to arm themselves against the growing threat. Every year, over three billion euros flow into detective missions, test purchases and various protective measures and camera surveillance. While measures such as full video surveillance and security guards are effective, they come with a high price.

While such incidents are accelerating the security situation in Cologne and the surrounding area, it remains to be hoped that the police will quickly clarify the current cases and that the perpetrators will be stopped. In the meantime, citizens are urged to be vigilant and report suspicious activity to prevent possible further thefts.