There are 95 parades planned in the region covered by Bonn police. There are approximately four weeks remaining before the parades take place and in that time, police will meet with the respective parade organizers to decide whether or not any barriers or blocks are needed, and if so, in which locations. “When it comes to this topic, we have to achieve a balancing act between increased safety requirements and the interests of the carnival,” said Scholten.

Similar to 2016, police will be present in public places, with very high manpower. No submachine guns will be used In the previous year, the Bonn police department had more than 1,000 police officers working at “Weiberfastnacht” and “Rosenmontag”. At least the same number of officers is planned for 2017. “We want and we must strengthen the people’s sense of security,” says Scholten. Similar to Pützchen’s Market, however, police will not be armed with submachine guns.

Bonn’s parade director, Axel Wolf spoke of a very open and honest discussion with police. “We have a good feeling because police were able to communicate to us that together, we would be able to ensure that the Bonn “Rosenmontag” parade run safely through the inner city,” he said. “Nevertheless, we will once again zoom in on all aspects and keep asking questions,” Wolf told GA. For the “Weiberfastnacht” parade in Beuel, everything is expected to be the same for the time being.

Head female carnivalist Ina Harder says, “All security-related topics are constantly being updated, and we will remain in close contact with police.” The Bonn “Rosenmontag” parade begins at 12 noon on February 27. Orig. text: Holger Willcke