Is it safe to travel to Berlin? Latest advice after Christmas market lorry attack

TRAVEL fears are heightened after an attack in Berlin where a lorry ploughed into a crowd of Christmas revellers killing 12 and injuring more than 50.

The latest Foreign Office advice tells travellers most visits to Germany are trouble free but to remain vigilant amidst the high threat of terrorism.

3

3

What happened in Berlin?

Tourists and local people visiting a Christmas market saw a burst of horrifying violence as a man hijacked a lorry and drove through a crowd of people in the evening of December 19.

Petrified crowds were sent running for cover when the suspected terrorist took control of the 25-tonne truck and ploughed it into the Breitscheidplatz Christmas markets at around 7pm, leaving a bloody trail in its wake.

The killer's vehicle mounted the pavement before crashing into a crowd of shoppers, tearing through stalls before coming to a stop after a deadly 150ft rampage outside the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in the city’s centre.

A Polish man found in the passenger seat of the hijacked cab had been shot dead, Germany's Interior Minister confirmed this morning.

Is it safe to travel to Berlin?

Since the attack the Foreign Office has released travel advice.

There is a high threat from terrorism and the German government has announced there will be increased security at public buildings, major events, transport hubs and large public gatherings.

There may also be increased security in place over the Christmas and New Year period, including Christmas markets and other events that might attract large crowds.

Although there is no requirement to carry a passport with you, you may be asked to show it, if you do not have it on you you may be escorted by police to where it is so you can produce it.

The Foreign Office added there has been disruption to rail, road and ferry transport between Denmark, Sweden, Austria and Germany.

It also said: "Around 2,000,000 British nationals visit Germany every year. Most visits are trouble-free."

3

Where can you check for the latest information?

You should remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

The German police have issued a contact number, +49 30 540 23 111, for people concerned or who may have relevant information.

Visit the for more travel information.

READ MORE:

Berlin cops ‘admit they have the WRONG man’ and armed terror trucker who slaughtered 12 at Xmas market could still be on the loose – as Merkel visits scene

German ministers turn on Angela Merkel as her open-door migrant policy is blamed for Berlin truck massacre and string of attacks by refugees

The British cities where SAS troops have been deployed to protect Christmas shoppers as cops warn UK terror attack is ‘highly likely’