Berlin police crack down as reckless crowds ignore thin ice warnings

Frozen lakes turn deadly as daring groups defy police orders—while rescuers race to save those who fall through. Why do so many still take the risk?

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2026 January 11 . 5:01 PM

1 min read

In this picture I can see group of people doing skating on the ice, there are toy penguins, there... — In this picture I can see group of people doing skating on the ice, there are toy penguins, there are lights, poles, trees, there are group of people standing, this is looking like a shop, there is a vehicle, there are buildings, and in the background there is sky and there are watermarks on the image.

Ice Hazard: Police Warn Against Walking on Frozen Waters - Berlin police crack down as reckless crowds ignore thin ice warnings

Berlin police have warned residents to stay off frozen lakes and rivers after multiple incidents involving thin ice. Over the weekend, several people were rescued from icy waters, while large groups ignored safety risks by gathering on unstable surfaces.

On Saturday, around 200 to 300 people were seen walking on the frozen Rummelsburg Bay. Authorities intervened, deploying a helicopter to disperse the crowd and prevent accidents. The same day, a similar gathering of 50 to 70 individuals was reported at Lohmühlenbrücke, where police ordered them to leave due to the high risk of the ice breaking.

A separate incident occurred in Neukölln, where a person fell through the ice but managed to pull themselves out without serious injury. Meanwhile, in Spandau, a man in his 50s fell from a ship into freezing water. Emergency responders rescued him and performed resuscitation before rushing him to hospital. Police have repeatedly stressed the dangers of thin ice across Berlin. Despite warnings, many continue to ignore the risks, prompting further patrols and aerial surveillance over vulnerable areas like Lake Zeuthen.

The recent incidents highlight the ongoing threat posed by unstable ice. Authorities are reinforcing patrols and using helicopters to discourage people from entering hazardous areas. Rescuers remain on high alert as temperatures stay low.