Teenager, aged 19, apprehended by law enforcement for suspected solitary offence

In the German cities of Cologne and Leverkusen, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of illegal street races, according to the latest police statistics, which cover the period up to June 30th, 2023.

In Cologne, the number of illegal street races registered by the police in the first half of 2023 is over 80, which is nearly the same as the previous year. However, in Leverkusen, the number of such races has doubled, with 14 incidents reported compared to last year.

One of the most recent incidents occurred on the night of Sunday, 17th August, in the Zollstock district of Cologne. A 19-year-old driver was stopped by the police after a report of a Peugeot 207 driving at high speed in the wrong direction on a roundabout at Oberer Komarweg / Am Eifeltor. The vehicle spun out upon exiting the roundabout and was eventually stopped in a parking lot on Zollstocker Weg.

The 29-year-old driver who triggered the emergency call and led the pursuit convoy to the incident managed to avoid a collision by braking sharply. Police seized the 19-year-old's driver's license, mobile phone, and vehicle. Investigations are underway against the 19-year-old for suspected illegal street racing and endangerment of traffic.

Unfortunately, not all incidents end without accidents. In the same period this year, over 20 of these races resulted in traffic accidents, compared to 13 in the same period last year. However, only one accident resulting from an illegal street race has occurred in Leverkusen this year, compared to 4 last year.

It's important to note that the statistics do not specify the exact dates or locations of the illegal street races or accidents mentioned. They also do not provide information about the penalties or punishments for those found guilty of illegal street racing. Furthermore, the statistics do not mention any other charges or offenses related to the illegal street races besides traffic accidents.

The police are urging the public to report any such incidents to help reduce the number of illegal street races and the associated risks. By working together, we can ensure the safety of our streets and communities.