In Munich, dozens of surveillance cameras and other security devices are installed in the beer tent area. The background of the tightening measures is the knife attack that took place in Solingen in August.
Oktoberfest has brought autumn and the festival to Bohemia, as its name suggests, for 189 years.
This year, the security arrangements are tighter than before in case of the tightened world situation and possible terrorist attacks.
Longer queues than in previous years are expected at the tent area, as visitors are guided through metal detectors at the entrances. The devices are in use for the first time in the event’s history.
About six million guests are expected for the folk festival, which starts on the sixth of October.
Solingen’s act of violence is not wanted to be repeated
According to the authorities, the reason behind the tightened security measures is, among other things, the knife attack in Solingen in August.
A 26-year-old Syrian asylum seeker fatally stabbed three people and wounded eight people. The extremist organization Isis says it is responsible for the knife attack and that the suspect is a member of the organization.
The suspect had been ordered to be deported to Bulgaria after a negative asylum decision.
Oktoberfest has not been threatened
According to German authorities, there is no particular threat to Oktoberfest.
Preparation is still at a high level. Supporting fences will be erected around the party area. Security is monitored by 600 police officers and 2,000 security guards. Bringing bladed weapons, glass bottles and backpacks to the tents is prohibited.
Germany has also tightened security measures in general. Germany started temporary border controls this week. Inspections are valid for six months.
Reuters