Expansion of security measures
Use of additional bodycams
Security personnel of DB Group using bodycams have been deployed in ten cities and 13 stations in North Rhine-Westphalia since the beginning of 2019. This means that bodycams are now part of the equipment of DB Group’s security personnel.
Video technology further developed
DB Group is expanding video monitoring at stations. Modern video technology secures important evidence, supports the German Federal police in their investigations and increases the feeling of safety among passengers. Since 2012, DB Group has increased, and thus almost tripled, the number of video cameras in regional and S-Bahn (metro) trains to more than 32,000. Currently, DB Group operates 7,400 video cameras at 1,100 stations. Only the Federal police record the images and use the recordings during investigations of criminal activities. This process complies with the provisions of data protection authorities in this process.
Innovative video technology is to improve reliability and punctuality of rail operations and reduce any adverse effects on the customers. DB Group will test the respective technical options together with the Federal police between mid-June until the end of 2019 at the Berlin Südkreuz station. The goal is to check whether image analyzing software is able to unequivocally de - tect situations that might have an adverse effect on the quality, reliability and safety of rail operations. The test is carried out in compliance with the provisions of the data protection authorities.
Differentiated development in crime rates in 2018
Crime rates in trains and stations remained nearly stable in 2018 – despite increasing passenger numbers – and are significantly below those in other public spaces. We recorded a decrease overall in bag and hand luggage theft by about 25%; compared to 2015, the number is almost half. Graffiti-related crime has increased noticeably in 2018, with 20,660 offenses (+14%) and a damage amount of about € 13.1 million (+30%). The increase in trespassing incidents, with 11,140 (+20%) cases and/or criminal complaints, resulted from a stronger presence and a stricter approach against troublemakers at large train stations.