In the end of December, residents in Traunstein took a brave stand against an illegal refugee smuggler and handed him over to the police. However, three residents – Hans H. (61), his son (25), and a neighbor (55) – found themselves facing legal issues when the smuggler claimed he had been beaten and injured. Despite their denials of these accusations, the residents had acted within their rights to make a citizen’s arrest.
The public prosecutor’s office had to investigate these claims, leading to inquiries against the residents. However, it was determined that their actions were justified in stopping the smuggler from escaping after he brought 18 Syrians into Germany illegally. The three men held him until the police arrived, resulting in his arrest.
While civil courage is important, the prosecutor’s office warned that smugglers are becoming increasingly unscrupulous and emphasized the need for caution when confronting criminals. The residents were cleared of any wrongdoing in this incident but it serves as a reminder that community intervention is crucial in stopping illegal activities such as human trafficking.
