German police seize illegal gaming machines in Hildesheim raids

Police in Hildesheim searched more than 20 properties on 29 September 2026 and seized several illegally operated gaming machines, according to a joint statement by the public prosecutor's office and police. The operation focused on illegal gambling and on allegations of unauthorised trading in narcotics in not insignificant quantities. Investigators are examining 15 suspects in connection with both matters.

The searches covered residential and commercial properties in the city of Hildesheim and one property in the district of Hildesheim, all searched at the same time. The investigation by the 2nd specialist unit of the Hildesheim police inspection has been conducted since February 2026 under the direction of the Hildesheim public prosecutor's office, according to the joint statement, and is based on findings from other criminal proceedings.

Officers from the Hildesheim police were joined by forces from the Hameln-Pyrmont-Holzminden and Northeim police inspections, several units of the riot police and several dog handlers from across Lower Saxony. The operation was supported by the financial control of undeclared work unit of the Braunschweig main customs office and by staff of the city of Hildesheim.

Besides several gaming machines and stolen goods, investigators seized evidence including cocaine, cannabis, cash and various mobile phones. Christian Bomert, head of the Hildesheim police inspection, who led the operation, said the investigation was being pursued with the highest priority. "Unser Ziel ist es, die begangenen Taten zusammen mit der Staatsanwaltschaft lückenlos aufzuklären und konsequent gegen die Verantwortlichen vorzugehen." The Hildesheim public prosecutor's office said a detailed evaluation of the evidence is still ongoing.