England fans attending the Euros in Germany have been advised by football bosses to stay in an area known for being plagued by violent drug addicts referred to as “zombies”. Specifically, Uefa has designated hotels in Frankfurt’s railway station area, Bahnhofsviertel, as the base for a large number of Three Lions supporters. However, this area has been labeled as “the most dangerous slum in Germany” due to its high number of drug addicts and dealers, with issues exacerbated by the introduction of new and stronger drugs such as crystal meth and a new mixture of crack cocaine.
According to reports, the drug addicts in Bahnhofsviertel do not hide their drug use and are prone to becoming aggressive. The situation in the area has worsened during the pandemic, with businesses closing down and creating more space for drug activity. Security consultant Peter Postleb has raised concerns about Uefa recommending fans to stay in this area, highlighting incidents of robbery and threats faced by passers-by. Despite recent police raids in the area, concerns about safety remain high, especially with a crucial group match involving England against Denmark scheduled on June 20.
The advice from Uefa to fans emphasizes the convenience and accessibility of accommodation near the Central Station or in Bahnhofsviertel for exploring the city and its surroundings. However, statistics show that half of all crimes in Frankfurt occur in just three streets in the area, with four violent attacks happening daily. This has led to criticism from England supporters and calls for Uefa to reconsider their guidance, especially considering the safety of fans and families traveling to Germany for the Euros. Local politicians and associations have described Bahnhofsviertel as a problematic area that needs attention and intervention.