Kufstein rejects weapon ban zone: security or illusion?

Kufstein rejects weapon ban zone: security or illusion?

Kufstein, Österreich - In Kufstein, an application for the introduction of an weapon ban zone by the "SPÖ - for Kufstein" was recently placed on the agenda. This zone would have included the central areas of the upper and lower town square and the Fischergries to the train station. The cities of Innsbruck and Vienna served as role models, which have established their own prohibitions on weapons since 2019. City councilor Alexander Gfaller-Bund-Aschen cited "recurring incidents with stab weapons" as the main reason for this step. The goal was clear: the police should be able to control more efficiently in the prohibition zone and pull knives out of circulation.

A possible exception would have provided for the wearing of "Swiss knives" and for certain professional groups. However, the security committee and the city council recommended that the application reject. The district administration of Kufstein made it clear that an introduction of the prohibition of weapons is not "possible" and was not "targeted". The city police and the Kufstein police inspection also saw no compelling necessity for such a measure. After this comprehensive examination, the SPÖ Kufstein withdrew its application. However, Gfalller-Ainsche pointed out that it was problematic that many types of weapons cannot be banned and that carrying weapons could be difficult to control.

A look at existing weapons ban zones

So far,

in Innsbruck has probably shown its positive aspects. However, it remains to be seen whether other cities such as Kufstein can or also want to take this step. According to Krone there are clear differences in the assessments of the crime situation between cities.

crime in Austria

Statista

The perceived security of the population is also influenced by these numbers. According to surveys, 70% of Austrians are convinced that immigrants tighten the crime problems. Nevertheless, another survey shows that 77% of the Austrian population have great confidence in the police, while 72% also provide the judiciary this trust. It remains to be hoped that new approaches to fight crime will have an effect.

Overall, it can be said that Kufstein wants to advance, but the risks and challenges of the prohibition of weapons are probably considered to be too high. The discussion about security and gun law remains exciting and relevant in today's society.