Christmas Market Heist: Pensioner Lifts Entire Mulled Wine Dispenser in German Festive Fiasco
A shocking incident unfolded at a beloved Christmas market in Wannsee, Germany, as a pensioner, reportedly using a walking frame, made off with an entire mulled wine dispenser. The brazen theft, captured on multiple security cameras, has sent ripples of concern through the festive stalls and left event organisers counting significant losses.
The alleged perpetrator first targeted the Loretta beer garden on Thursday, December 4th, during its preparation phase for the upcoming holiday season. While the venue was being transformed into a winter wonderland, the man, described as an elderly individual using a walking aid, began his spree. Security footage later revealed him returning on Saturday, pilfering various items from the establishment.
His audacious campaign continued into Tuesday morning. At approximately 1:15 AM, security cameras recorded the man meticulously unlocking the cash register, only to find it empty. In a peculiar twist, each time he departed, he reportedly secured the premises by locking the doors behind him, a detail that has baffled local authorities and residents alike.
The Extent of the Damage
The impact of these repeated intrusions has been substantial. Daniel Schwabe, the event manager, revealed that the total cost to repair the damage incurred by the venue is estimated to be between €70,000 and €80,000. The thief’s actions went beyond mere petty larceny; he made off with a collection of master keys, several electronic devices, and, most significantly, the entire tap system dedicated to dispensing the popular German mulled wine, known as “Glühwein.”
Further compounding the distress, Schwabe detailed how the intruder also forced entry into a back office, causing considerable damage. Windows were smashed, and a crucial cooling unit was rendered inoperable, adding to the extensive repairs needed to restore the venue to its pre-theft condition.
Stallholders Fortify Their Positions
The escalating security concerns have prompted some stallholders to take drastic measures to protect their livelihoods. According to reports, several vendors have resorted to sleeping on the premises overnight to act as a deterrent and safeguard their equipment. Bastian Pirschel, who operates a popular grill stand, expressed a sentiment shared by many: “We all hope he doesn’t come back.”
In response to the incidents, the venue has taken immediate action to bolster its security. An alarm system has been installed, and all locks have been changed to prevent further unauthorized access.
Resilience Amidst the Setback
Despite the significant disruption and financial strain, the Christmas market’s operations have not been halted. Mr. Schwabe expressed his relief, stating, “I spent months planning to turn the beer garden into a Christmas market – and then something like this happens. Luckily, operations are not affected. We had replacements, and the Christmas market can continue.” This resilience ensures that the festive spirit of the market can prevail, even in the face of such unfortunate events.
Numerous reports have been filed with the police, who are actively investigating the case. The community is hopeful for a swift resolution and the apprehension of the individual responsible for this unusual festive disruption. The incident serves as a stark reminder that even during times of celebration, vigilance remains paramount.
