Germany Considers Covert Police Search Powers

German Justice Minister Marco Buschmann has publicly opposed Interior Minister Nancy Faeser's proposed draft bill that would grant the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) the authority to conduct covert house searches in specific cases, particularly relating to imminent terrorist threats. The proposal, which would amend existing laws, aims to enhance police powers, including the ability to install spyware on suspects' devices. Critics argue that these measures could undermine the rule of law and violate the constitutional right to home inviolability, with concerns raised by various political figures and organizations about potential misuse against political opponents and journalists. While the Interior Ministry defends the initiative as necessary for national security, the proposal is still under discussion and has not yet gained full support within the government. Supporters like Konstantin von Notz from the Green party argue that modern investigative tools are needed in light of increasing terrorism threats in Europe. The bill emphasizes that operations would require court approval and should only be employed as a last resort to avert imminent dangers.