Germany ramps up security measures ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations

German authorities were on Saturday working to ensure public safety ahead of New year's Eve celebrations amid the ongoing terror threat looming over Europe.


Security forces were doing everything possible in order to avoid a repeat of the sexual assaults and mass theft that took place in the western German city of Cologne during last year's celebrations.

A "party mile" has been installed in Berlin between the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column, where up to one million people are expected to congregate to ring in the New Year.

Large concrete blocks have been placed at certain access points along the route, which spans more than one kilometer (0.6 mile) in length.

Some 1,800 police officers were to be deployed in Berlin, along with 800 private security officials.
EFE
31/12/16