Police in Cologne and Leverkusen launch video chat reporting service

Police departments in Cologne and Leverkusen have introduced a video chat service that allows citizens to report minor crimes directly from home. The service is available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though it is not operational on public holidays.

The digital option is specifically designed for cases of minor criminality, such as theft, minor fraud, property damage, and insults. To use the service, the incident must have occurred within the jurisdiction of Cologne or Leverkusen. For internet-related crimes, the reporting individual must reside in one of these two cities.

Several conditions apply to the use of this service: no physical evidence can be required for collection or handover, users must provide a valid photo ID, and the service is currently offered exclusively in German. The initiative aims to improve access to police services, enhance the quality of reports, and accelerate processing times without diverting resources from emergency situations.