Duisburg: Fear of riots - DVG threatens radical step

DVG threatens to stop bus and tram traffic

After the violent riots on New Year's Eve in the Marxloh district of Duisburg, the DVG (Duisburger Verkehrsgesellschaft) is considering stopping bus and tram traffic in the district in the evenings and on weekends.

DVG board member Marcus Wittig announced this on Monday at a press conference. "We can no longer guarantee the safety of our passengers and employees," said Wittig. "That's why we're left with no choice but to consider stopping our services in Marxloh,"

The DVG is not the only company considering such a step. The Rheinbahn in Düsseldorf and the Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB) are also considering stopping their services in certain districts in the evenings and on weekends.

Background of the riots

On New Year's Eve, around 300 people rioted in the Marxloh district of Duisburg. They set fire to cars and rubbish bins, and threw stones at police officers.

The police were able to restore peace after several hours. However, the riots have left a deep shock in the population.

The reasons for the riots are still unclear. However, it is suspected that the riots were triggered by a dispute between two families.

Political reactions

The riots have also caused political reactions. NRW Interior Minister Herbert Reul (CDU) has announced that he will increase the police presence in Marxloh.

Duisburg Mayor Sören Link (SPD) has called for more social projects in the district. "We need to improve the living conditions in Marxloh," said Link.