On two wheels in the city centre: Aachen police introduce bicycle patrol
Last year, interested colleagues from the police station in Mariental formed a working group with the aim of setting up a bicycle patrol.
The result is impressive: Five sturdy trekking bikes and special service functional clothing plus bicycle helmets ensure that the Aachen police also have a climate-neutral presence on two wheels in Aachen's city center.
Bicycle patrol as a supplement to existing means of deployment
On early or late shift, the colleagues are on their own shift and ride either individually or in pairs. Their patrol area mainly covers the area of the inner ring of ditches, which can be patrolled quickly and easily on a two-wheeler.
In addition to showing presence, the bicycle patrol also carries out missions. These are primarily those without any major potential danger, i.e. traffic obstructions, traffic accidents with property damage or shoplifting. The colleagues take care of minor maintenance work and bike care, as well as cleaning clothing that is not individually assigned. Pedelecs are also being planned for the future.
Presentation to the public
On 14 July, the city centre patrol bike patrol was officially presented to the media and thus also to the citizens of Aachen.
The initial reactions have been overwhelmingly positive and the colleagues on patrol also appreciate the new option of being able to switch from patrol car to bike. In particular, the flexibility and speed as well as the ability to talk to pedestrians and cyclists at eye level is perceived as an advantage by colleagues. With a greater presence on the streets, combined with effectively greater proximity to citizens, the bicycle patrol makes a significant contribution to strengthening the feeling of safety among the population.