The German Police Inspectorate Cloppenburg/Vechta (Polizeiinspektion Cloppenburg/Vechta) and Europol are seeking the public’s help in solving a 28-year-old cold case with links to serious organised crime.

Despite extensive investigations over the years, the identity of the suspect(s) remains unknown, and authorities are hoping that new information from the public can finally help solve this case.

What we know

On 8 August 1996, a brutal murder occurred in Dümmerlohausen, Germany, where the victim was found next to a stolen red vehicle, riddled with bullets.

The victim, a male national from the former Yugoslavia, was involved in criminal circles and was known to law enforcement for his involvement in burglaries in northern Germany.

A resident of Hamburg, the victim is believed to been staying in a hotel in Oldenburg at the time of his murder, where he was presumably in hiding.

Despite a thorough investigation, the identity of the killer(s) has remained a mystery for the past 28 years.

Appeal to the public

Recent advances in forensic technology, combined with renewed investigative efforts, have enabled the German Police to re-examine the case. To widen the investigation’s reach, the German authorities have asked for Europol’s support.

The case falls under the work of Europol’s European Serious Organised Crime Centre, whose mandate was recently extended to counter the use of violence by organised crime groups. Europol’s work in this area covers a wide spectrum – from the most recent trends to decades old cold cases.

Authorities are now urging anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward.

The Oldenburg Police Department is offering a reward of EUR 5 000 for information leading to the resolution of the case and the apprehension of the perpetrator(s). This reward will be granted in agreement with the Oldenburg Public Prosecutor’s Office.

A short film has been produced by the German authorities, providing previously undisclosed details about the murder case and original photos and excerpts from the investigation files. It is intended to reach potential witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the murder.

How to provide information

Information can be provided anonymously to the German authorities.

A tip portal has been set up, allowing witnesses to contact the police anonymously. Users can also upload files and images through this portal.