The cause of the problems was the set activation threshold at 0 km/h: any movement near the device was recorded as "speeding." The radar, which was installed in December, was later dismantled, but the investigation into compliance with data protection laws continues.
City administration representatives explained the need for the camera by stating that it was intended to monitor access to the Christmas market, where violations of traffic rules incur a fine of 50 euros. Local residents and politicians expressed dissatisfaction that they were photographed without their consent for a month. Gregor Foth, deputy chairman of the "Free Voters" party, noted: "Every time I accept something online, I agree to a multitude of data protection agreements. And this camera recorded me as a pedestrian in public space without any justification."
The data protection agency demands the deletion of all recorded images and an assessment of the actions of local authorities. The Lübeck administration does not admit any wrongdoing, considering the measures unusual but necessary due to the high number of violations and lack of personnel. CDU representatives criticized Mayor Jan Lindenau, calling him "Big Brother," while faction leader Christopher Letsch described the camera as "an absurd caricature of itself." Lindenau rejected the criticism, stating that "those who cannot dispute the essence resort to personal attacks." He also mentioned that it is the CDU that most frequently calls for the automation and digitalization of the administration's work.
Wolfgang Kubicki, deputy chairman of the FDP at the federal level, jokingly linked the installation of the radar to a possible increase in alcohol consumption ahead of the holidays. "This idea probably originated under the influence of mulled wine," he speculated.
