Shots Fired Again at Business in Berlin-Steglitz – No Injuries

The special unit "Ferrum" (Latin for "iron") specializes in serious violent and property crimes in the capital. According to its own statements, it had initiated more than 600 investigations roughly nine months after its founding (as of 13 August): „Mehr als 600 Ermittlungsverfahren hat die Sondereinheit "Ferrum" (lateinisch für "Eisen") rund neun Monate nach Gründung eingeleitet (Stand: 13. August)."

In recent weeks and months, there had already been repeated shooting attacks on businesses and other establishments in Berlin. Just a few days ago, unknown individuals had fired at a business near Blankertzweg in Steglitz, also without anyone being harmed. Police are examining possible links.

Investigations and Witness Appeal

The head of the special unit, Criminal Director Telum, had announced a few weeks ago that investigations into this series of attacks on businesses in Berlin would be concentrated. They wanted to proceed with maximum pressure and pooled resources against the perpetrators, he said at the time. The president of the State Office of Criminal Investigation had also announced more personnel and an increased presence in the affected neighborhoods.

Residents on Osdorfer Straße reported to police that they had heard several loud bangs during the night. Some residents were unsettled and alerted the police. „Verletzte Personen gab es demnach keine", the officers stated.

The public prosecutor's office is investigating on suspicion of attempted manslaughter and serious property damage. Should investigators establish a connection to earlier offenses, the case could be consolidated within the special unit's "Business Attacks Berlin" complex.

Reactions from the Neighborhood

Police are asking witnesses who made suspicious observations around Osdorfer Straße, Ostpreußendamm, or adjacent streets during the night to Sunday to contact the State Office of Criminal Investigation. Tips will also be accepted by any other police station.

On the morning after the incident, only a cordoned-off crime scene remained visible at the business. Crime scene technicians secured evidence. Residents and passersby watched the work from a distance.

The Berlin Senate Department of the Interior had announced in recent weeks that it would strengthen the special commissions against organized crime in Berlin in terms of personnel. The federal government is also supporting the capital in investigating such offenses. In the case of the current incident in Steglitz, investigations are still ongoing.

The special unit "Ferrum" last published an interim report on its investigations on 13 August. According to this, the clearance rate in several cases is above the average of comparable units. Police did not provide specific figures for the latest case in Steglitz on Sunday morning.

In light of the repeated attacks, concern about further escalation is growing in parts of the district. Local politicians have once again called for more police presence, especially in the evening and nighttime hours. Police announced increased patrols around Osdorfer Straße.