There will be a new police unit in the Moselle Valley

As of 1 June, a new police unit will start operating in Grevenmacher and seven neighbouring communes in eastern Luxembourg. This is part of a pilot programme to decentralise and "humanise" the police presence. The model, which has already proven itself in Luxembourg, Esche and Differdange, is now being extended to the country's quiet wine regions.

The new patrol area includes Mertert, Grevenmacher, Wormeldange, Stadtbredimus, Biwer, Manternach, Lenningen and Flaxweiler.

At first glance, the move may seem excessive: according to official statistics, the east of the country had some of the lowest crime rates in 2024, be it violence, theft or drugs. However, Interior Minister Léon Gloden emphasises: it's not just about numbers, but also about perception. "In Luxembourg and Esch, we have seen not only a real decrease in crime, but also an increased sense of security among the population," he said, responding to a parliamentary enquiry from MP Meris Šehović of the Green Party.

The new structure will not just patrol the streets, but will also respond to the specific needs of each municipality, making the project flexible and adaptable to the local context. The choice of the Moselle Valley was based not only on the demographic and tourist characteristics of the region, but also on the "increased risks of public order disturbance" in certain areas.

Staffing will be decided after consultation with local authorities - the format involves close co-operation between the police and municipalities.