Security at Munich’s Oktoberfest has been tightened more than in previous years following recent attacks in the area.
Oktoberfest authorities have added a metal fence, additional surveillance cameras, and security checks to the festival grounds as well as banned backpacks and large bags this year.
The festival, which is expected to have 6 million visitors, has not received any concrete threats, but authorities have said that there is a “high abstract danger” of an attack, MarketWatch reported.
The police presence at the festival also has been increased by 100 to 600 officers at peak times, as well as 450 security guards.
Authorities hope these measures will prevent any attacks or violence from taking place. The concerns come after several recent attacks in Europe, including a murder-suicide by a German teen at a shopping mall in Munich.
The increase in recent attacks is attributed by some to the increase in Muslim immigration from war-torn countries into Germany and other areas, but security officials are quick to point out that the vast majority of migrants are not committing violent acts.
“With the adjusted security measures, we react to recent events without changing the basic character of the Oktoberfest,” said Mayor Josef Schmid on the Oktoberfest website, referring to the new security checks and the lack of uncontrolled access to the fairground.
The Department of Public Order's Dr. Thomas Bohle added, “Our common goal in this new situation was to increase safety at the Oktoberfest. ... However, there is no guarantee for total safety anywhere.”
The festival opened Saturday under dreary skies with heavy rain, which did not deter thousands of beer lovers from attending.
Oktoberfest was first held in Munich in 1810.
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