At the midpoint of the 190th Oktoberfest, Munich’s police have released a sobering interim balance.
While millions of visitors enjoy the world’s largest folk festival, authorities are dealing with a marked rise in certain offenses compared to last year.
The figures show more assaults, several rape cases, and a sharp increase in alcohol-related traffic violations, especially on e-scooters.
Despite this, the police emphasize that the overall security situation remains manageable, supported by a mostly peaceful atmosphere and strong civic courage among festivalgoers.
Rising assaults overshadow the festive spirit
Violent incidents are a key concern this year. So far, officers have recorded 134 cases of bodily harm, compared to 84 at the same point in 2024 — a dramatic jump.
Among them are 43 dangerous assaults, often involving multiple attackers or dangerous objects. In 16 cases, beer steins (Masskrüge) were used as weapons.
While the majority of Wiesn evenings remain calm, these incidents highlight the volatile mix of alcohol and overcrowding in beer tents and on festival grounds.
Sexual offenses remain steady, three rape cases reported
In the area of sexual crimes, the figures have remained at previous levels with 33 cases reported (2024: 31; 2023: 34).
However, within these statistics, three cases were classified as rape, a particularly serious development that has sparked concern.
Most other reports relate to sexual harassment, which has become a recurring issue at large festivals. Police stress that all cases are being investigated and that victim support services are in place.
Cocaine dominates drug-related crimes
Drug offenses have also increased slightly: 86 cases have been filed, up from 74 in 2024. According to police, most involve cocaine possession or use, continuing a worrying trend seen in recent years.
In addition, several weapons were seized:
- Two visitors carried traditional Trachten knives.
- Two others had pocket knives.
- In one alarming incident, a man threatened guests in a tent with a bread knife.
Each case resulted in criminal charges.
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E-scooter drunk driving cases more than doubled
Traffic violations under the influence of alcohol are another hotspot. Authorities report 285 incidents so far, compared to 164 last year.
Particularly striking is the rise in e-scooter drunk driving, which has more than doubled.
Police warn that such behavior endangers not only drivers themselves but also pedestrians and other festival visitors navigating Munich’s crowded streets late at night.
Overall picture: higher crime, but still controlled
414 total offenses have been recorded so far, compared to 317 in 2024 and 479 in 2023.
833 police operations were carried out, fewer than last year’s 901.
Many interventions were prompted by bystanders showing strong civil courage, contacting police or serving as witnesses.
Despite higher figures in some categories, Munich police describe the overall situation as “low-level” given the size of the event.
The peaceful mood of most visitors has contributed to keeping serious escalations limited.
Munich’s police strike a cautious balance
Halfway through Oktoberfest 2025, Munich’s police strike a cautious balance: although assaults, sexual offenses and cocaine cases weigh on the statistics, the majority of the festival continues without major disruptions.
The sharp rise in drunk driving on e-scooters stands out as a new security challenge.
The coming days will show whether the situation remains under control or whether the world’s biggest beer festival will close its anniversary year with more troubling headlines.
