Theft, Burglary, and Robbery in Cologne

In a wealthy, populous city like Cologne, burglaries, robberies, and petty theft are unfortunately not uncommon. Vigilant citizens who notice signs of break-ins should immediately alert the police. Quick reporting is essential to catch burglars in the act. Daytime burglaries are particularly frequent, as residents are away at work while offenders target homes and apartments. If a burglary or theft is discovered only after the fact, the IHK-certified detectives of Kurtz Investigations Cologne are the right professionals to investigate: +49 221 4558 0377.

 

Recently, there has been an increase in trick thefts, where perpetrators pose as law enforcement officers to gain illegal access to residential properties and commit property crimes—a more egregious variation of the classic “gasman trick,” additionally constituting the criminal offence of impersonating a public official (§ 132 StGB).

Vacant Homes – During Holidays, Hospital Stays, or Care

Temporarily unoccupied homes and apartments are attractive targets for thieves, as the absence of residents greatly reduces the risk of being caught. For burglars, this represents an ideal opportunity. Many Cologne residents rightly fear that someone may tamper with their property while they are on vacation and therefore take preventive measures against burglary. The security consultants at Kurtz Investigations Cologne are happy to assist: +49 221 4558 0377.

 

It is not only vacation absences that professional burglars exploit. In recent years, burglaries have increasingly occurred when residents are in hospitals or care facilities. In response, the Cologne police have launched initiatives to inform and sensitize citizens to these circumstances, aiming to gradually reduce the number of victims of such property crimes.

 

Even in hospitals or care facilities, securing your belongings is crucial. Patients may be away from their rooms for treatment, on walks, under the influence of medication, or simply asleep, making it easier for unauthorized individuals to gain access. Offenders may include other visitors, individuals posing as staff or patients, and even employees or roommates. Protect your valuables by using safes, lockers, or entrusting them to relatives.

 

If a property crime has already occurred, the private detectives of Kurtz Investigations Cologne are ready to investigate and clarify the theft: +49 221 4558 0377.

Elderly person in bed while a doctor makes notes on a clipboard; Kurtz Investigations Cologne, Private Detective Cologne, Private Investigator Cologne, Detective Team Cologne

Burglaries targeting homes temporarily vacant due to hospital stays are on the rise.

Tips for Independent Burglary Prevention

 

  • Lock doors and windows securely, ideally using multiple locks. A door merely closed but not locked can save burglars several crucial minutes depending on their method.

  • Avoid posting absence notices on doors, façades, answering machines, or emails.

  • Make your home appear occupied. This can be achieved with motion sensors and timers that turn lights, televisions, and other devices on at irregular times. Also, have relatives, neighbours, or friends regularly empty your mailbox and check on the property.

  • Do not leave notes containing personal identification numbers (PINs) for bank accounts or cards.

 

Please note that these tips provide only limited protection. For professional preventive measures, contact our Cologne security consultants, who will conduct a thorough property analysis and implement appropriate measures in consultation with you: +49 221 4558 0377.