Since autumn 2025, a gang of minors has terrorized Leipzig with violent acts and robberies. Police have recorded 150 crimes and formed a special investigation team. The leaders are reportedly two 11-year-old twins.
In Leipzig, minors are causing unrest: A new children's gang of more than a dozen kids and youths has spread fear for months through assaults. Police attribute 150 crimes to them, including thefts of phones, clothing, and cash. The leaders are reportedly two 11-year-old twin brothers with high violence potential, according to the "Leipziger Volkszeitung".
The attacks started in the city's west, particularly in the Grünau district. A father reported: "For months, students have been assaulted by a youth gang. I'm afraid for my child." At the Bischöfliches Maria-Montessori-Schulzentrum, several cases were reported by late 2025, such as the theft of a scooter from three fourth-graders or a bike from second- and fifth-graders near the "Heizhaus" cultural center. Parents were advised to avoid the "Heizhaus" and the "Allee-Center".
Police deny no-go areas but have increased their presence. A mid-December 2025 meeting involved school administration, parents, and the police directorate. Spokesman Moritz Peters said: "We take their concerns and suggestions very seriously." More uniformed officers patrol after the Christmas holidays.
The gang operates citywide, with over 100 crimes by under-14s. In early October 2025, a seven-officer investigation team was formed to handle 150 cases. Successes: A 15-year-old was arrested on December 10, 2025, and placed in custody for robbery and theft. On November 24, he participated in multiple assaults, including in the city center and at northern schools. Two members are currently incarcerated.
An attack on a kosher café on January 7 in Plagwitz is also linked to the gang; an employee was injured, with suspects aged 10 and 11. The perpetrators, often from German and migrant families, post videos on social networks. The core group has nine boys, totaling 14 members.
The twins come from a South Sudanese family, born in Leipzig with dual citizenship. Their mother speaks little German; the family is under supervision. Investigators see integration issues. It resembles a 2012 gang led by German twins.
Challenges: Criminal irresponsibility for under-14s complicates measures. Top violent offenders are four boys under 14 with 100 crimes each. Closed placement is possible, but Saxony has no facilities. An officer warned: "We are dealing with a high level of violence," including knives and pepper spray. Police cooperate with youth services and social agencies.
