Germany has extended border controls to all its land borders, including northern and western crossings, as part of measures to address irregular migration and cross-border crime. These controls, introduced recently, will remain in effect for at least six months, covering borders with Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and France. Previously, checks were conducted only at Germany's eastern and southern borders.
The German Interior Ministry stated that border checks will focus on specific behaviors, vehicles, and other factors, ensuring compliance with legal standards that prohibit racial profiling. Delivery vans are being closely monitored due to their frequent use in smuggling operations.
At various border checkpoints, vehicles are stopped for document verification, and long-distance buses are also subject to inspections. German authorities have already made arrests, including three individuals found with cannabis after evading a checkpoint on the A30 highway.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the extensive length of Germany's borders, officials noted that not every vehicle can be stopped. The expanded controls are part of an effort to reduce irregular migration and crime, while maintaining the free flow of goods and people within the Schengen Area.
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