(de-news.net) – The German Federal Cabinet has formally endorsed a comprehensive draft bill aimed at updating the Federal Police Act, a legislative framework that has remained largely unchanged for nearly three decades. The proposed reform introduces a wide array of new provisions designed to expand the Federal Police’s operational authority, particularly in the domains of deportation procedures and preventive security. A central focus of the legislation is the regulation and strategic deployment of drone technology in public safety operations.
Under the revised legal framework, the Federal Police would assume responsibility for countering drone-related threats in critical infrastructure zones, including airports and railway systems. In addition to defensive measures, the force would be authorized to utilize drones for active surveillance during public gatherings such as demonstrations. The Interior Ministry has also announced plans to establish a dedicated drone defense unit within the Federal Police to address emerging aerial threats. Complementing these efforts, a proposed amendment to the Aviation Security Act would enable the Bundeswehr to provide official assistance in cases involving high-altitude military drones, thereby enhancing inter-agency coordination in airspace security.
To strengthen national efforts against extremism and human trafficking, the reform grants the Federal Police expanded surveillance powers. These include the legal authority to intercept telecommunications and collect geolocation and user data for the purpose of preventing the entry of extremist individuals and uncovering illicit smuggling networks. Officers would also be empowered to detain individuals subject to deportation orders when encountered within their jurisdiction. Furthermore, preventive custody could be applied to persons suspected of violating travel bans, such as radicalized individuals intending to join armed conflicts abroad or violent football supporters traveling to international matches.
The legislation mandates that airlines operating flights from outside the Schengen Area must automatically transmit passenger data to the Federal Police, replacing the previous system of manual data requests. In addition, the reform introduces a new legal instrument known as the “residence ban,” which allows authorities to restrict the movement of individuals for up to three months in order to prevent potential violence, particularly in the context of large-scale events. Officers will also be permitted to conduct random and non-suspicion-based checks in designated weapons-free zones at train stations and aboard trains.
As part of the personnel vetting process, applicants seeking employment with the Federal Police will be subject to rigorous screening procedures. These are meant to assess both the candidates’ reliability and their adherence to constitutional principles.
The Interior Ministry has characterized the legislative package as a substantial advancement in public safety policy, while representatives from the SPD have emphasized its importance in enhancing the Federal Police’s capacity to respond effectively to drone-related threats and other emerging security challenges.
