Germany saw a significant increase in violence against police officers in 2023, a report said on Monday.
The Federal Criminal Police (BKA) said the latest annual figures show an 8% increase in physical attacks.
In total, 46,200 cases of violence have been registered, affecting more than 105,000 officers, according to the Wiesbaden-based agency.
“Since 2017, the number of cases in this area has continuously increased,” the report said.
The number of cases of dangerous and serious physical injuries fell by 13% to 1,260.
Police officers were not the only emergency responders attacked. Firefighters and ambulance personnel were involved in more than 2,500 violent incidents, the report said.
“It is frightening to see the hatred and violence that emergency services have to deal with,” said Interior Minister Nancy Faeser.
“These crimes cannot be justified and must face serious criminal consequences,” she added.
Alexander Poitz of the national police union said the number of unprovoked attacks had increased significantly.
“We are not lightning rods for social frustration and political anger,” he said, calling on prosecutors to quickly tackle the perpetrators.
The report also finds an increase in calls for violence against police officers on social media, warning that online incitement could lead to real-life attacks.