Nazi Salutes, Stolen Crocodile, and Assaults Mark Turbulent Start to Gäubodenvolksfest

The opening weekend of the Gäubodenvolksfest in Straubing, Germany, saw police intervention in a series of disruptive incidents. Authorities responded to offenses including Nazi salutes, the theft of a large plastic crocodile, sexual harassment, and assaults, highlighting a turbulent start to one of Bavaria's biggest folk festivals.

Among the notable incidents, two intoxicated men stole a three-meter-long plastic crocodile from a haunted house attraction. They were apprehended by police while attempting to leave the festival grounds. The crocodile is valued at approximately 5,000 euros. In separate events, police dealt with multiple instances of individuals displaying Nazi salutes. A 47-year-old man was cited for making the salute three times, while a 22-year-old was removed from the grounds for the same offense and later taken into custody upon attempting to re-enter.

Authorities also responded to a sexual harassment complaint, where an 18-year-old reported being indecently touched by a 40-year-old man in a beer tent. An investigation has been initiated against the suspect. Violence also erupted, with one man striking another with a beer stein, causing facial injuries that required hospitalization. Another fight led to a 30-year-old man needing medical attention.

In addition to these incidents, a 24-year-old woman reported her handbag stolen from a bench outside a tent, with a three-digit sum of cash missing. Despite these disturbances, the traditional costume parade preceding the festival proceeded without significant issues. The Gäubodenfest, which runs until August 17, anticipates approximately 1.3 million visitors.