Burglary at Cologne’s Essigfabrik
A professional break-in occurred at Cologne’s Essigfabrik between May 4 and 5, with thieves stealing a unique Westlab sound system worth €100,000. The police are investigating and seeking witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious near the venue.
Burglary at Cologne’s Essigfabrik: Sound System Worth €100,000 Stolen
Between Sunday morning (May 4) and Monday morning (May 5), unknown perpetrators broke into the Essigfabrik venue in Cologne. The stolen goods: a sound system worth €100,000.
With what appears to have been brute force, the intruders gained access to the event space and targeted the massive sound system. According to police reports, the hall’s door was forcibly opened, the entire audio setup was professionally dismantled, and seemingly removed using a larger transport vehicle. All signs point to a targeted and professionally planned operation.
The break-in was only discovered on Monday morning, when a cleaning staff member found the damaged door and reported the missing equipment. The damage is severe: police estimate a six-figure loss. The venue’s operators confirmed upon request that the Westlab sound system was a one-of-a-kind piece.
The Essigfabrik is a well-known and historic venue in Cologne’s nightlife scene. It also houses the Elektroküche, renowned for its techno raves.
The Cologne Criminal Police (Division 71) is now investigating the major theft and is urgently asking for witnesses. Anyone who saw suspicious vehicles or individuals near the venue over the weekend is asked to contact authorities at 0221 229-0 or via email at poststelle.koeln@polizei.nrw.de.
- Source: Express