City-wide enforcement by the Special Commission on Youth: Commission in action across the entire urban district
In the city of Gelsenkirchen, on a recent day in August 2025, the police and municipal public order service took to the streets in a concerted effort to combat juvenile crime. This operation was part of the Special Commission (Soko) "Youth", a unit established by Police President Tim Frommeyer in April 2024.
Between 15:00 and 22:00, a total of 141 controls were carried out. During these controls, the officers conducted both suspicion-based and suspicion-independent checks, with a focus on criminal youth and maintaining a visible presence. As a result, 17 items were secured, including electronic cigarettes and incapacitating substances.
Three persons were processed for identification purposes, and one arrest warrant was executed. Identities were established, and criminal and administrative offense reports were filed. Prevention talks and risk assessments were also conducted.
Einsatzleiter Kriminaldirektor Robert Herrmann expressed satisfaction with the operation, stating that the measures taken underscore the necessity of sustained control pressure. Kriminaloberrat Benjamin Thom, the new head of Soko "Jugend", emphasised the commitment to continue the good work of the unit and to persist in efforts to provide a way out of criminality for delinquent children and youth.
Kriminaloberrat Gerrit Boeckmann, the previous head of Soko "Youth", passed his leadership to his successor, Kriminaloberrat Benjamin Thom, due to a change to the neighboring police headquarters in Recklinghausen. The city of Gelsenkirchen continues to support the police in their efforts to combat juvenile crime.
The police aim to consistently combat juvenile crime in the future, with the support of the city of Gelsenkirchen. Officers of the municipal public order service were on duty in the city area on this day to carry out measures, as part of the ongoing support from the city.
For inquiries from journalists, please direct them to the Gelsenkirchen Police Press Office, headed by Police Commissioner Florian Muellenbrock. Contact information for the Press Office includes telephone, email, and website.
In conclusion, the operation conducted by the Gelsenkirchen Police and the municipal public order service was successful in securing items, making arrests, and providing a visible presence in the city. The city of Gelsenkirchen remains committed to supporting the police in their efforts to combat juvenile crime and improve citizens' sense of security.
