Münster train station: Crime is falling, drug problems remain!

Münster train station: Crime is falling, drug problems remain!

The train station in Münster, a central transport hub, is in focus because of its problems, which are primarily related to delinquency-related activities. The station attracts a large number of shopping and football fans, especially on weekends, but the presence of a drug and homeless scene does not go unnoticed. Travelers like Anne and Susanne report that they feel comfortable at the station, especially after the recent renovation that created special spaces for the homeless and drug scene at Bremer Platz. Nevertheless, former homeless person Roman Sudeck says that the situation at the train station remains problematic.

The police have identified the train station as a crime hotspot, where 15% of all crimes in Münster are committed. These alarming statistics have led to the introduction of increased security measures. A video observation on Windthorststrasse, which has been active for over a year, is intended to reduce crime. Thomas Grünfelder, owner of a nearby shop, is already reporting a decline in drug dealing. In addition, a knife and weapon ban zone has been set up since the middle of the year, as almost half of all knife crimes in 2024 were recorded near the train station.

Investigative commissions show success

The Münster police take stock of the successes of two investigative commissions that were founded to combat crimes in the train station area. The Commission to Combat Crimes in Public Spaces (StöR) has arrested over 150 suspects since August 2022, with pre-trial detention ordered in more than 60 cases. One of the significant arrests is that of the 29-year-old Algerian, who was taken into custody after several theft and drug offenses. A second investigative commission to combat drug crime has also led to 32 arrests in 36 cases since mid-2023, including 14 in custody.

Police Chief Alexandra Dorndorf emphasizes that the complexity of investigative work in the area of ​​drug crime represents a challenge. The recently decided partial legalization of cannabis raises new questions. Although consumption and possession have been legalized, trade remains illegal. This could lead to an increase in street trafficking and organized structures in the drug sector, which in turn could result in increased additional effort for police checks.

Decrease in crime, but new challenges

Despite the intensive police work, law enforcement authorities report a significant decrease in street crime in 2025. In Windthorststrasse and Berliner Platz in particular, registered crimes fell to a third of the previous year's level. In the neighborhood of Engelenschanze, however, smuggling and trafficking in narcotics has more than doubled, which highlights the challenge for the police.

The measures introduced to improve security at the train station are slowly having an impact on public perception and the crime rate. However, the area remains a sensitive issue for residents and travelers hoping for a lasting improvement in the situation.

For more information about the situation at Münster train station, read the reports from WDR and Press portal.