Weapons ban zone at Yppenplatz: Three months more security for Ottakring!

Weapons ban zone at Yppenplatz: Three months more security for Ottakring!

On November 1, 2025, the residents of Ottakring can breathe a sigh of relief again. After a series of violent incidents, including a dangerous stabbing, the Vienna police have decided to extend the weapons ban zone at the popular Yppenplatz. This measure will be in effect for another three months and aims to increase residents' sense of security and reduce crime in the area. The regulation is valid until February 2, 2026 and is intended to offer all families, residents and visitors Yppenplatz as a safe leisure location. According to [Kurier](https://kurier.at/chronik/wien/ Waffenhabenszone-ottakring-yppenplatz-verlaengert/403098687), 27 weapons have already been seized since the measures began in August, including 17 knives.

This decision comes as little surprise after a 26-year-old man was seriously injured in an altercation in August. Just two weeks later, there was another fight involving eight people, in which a knife was also used. Such incidents have understandably caused concern. But district leader Stefanie Lamp (SPÖ) sees the extension of the regulation as positive: “We are trying to make Yppenplatz a place where everyone can feel safe,” she said.

Positive feedback from the population

The residents are generally satisfied with the current measures. During the Ottakring Autumn Festival, many reported that they did not feel disturbed by the security precautions and that the feeling of security in the district was strengthened. Gabriele L. even emphasized that incidents are often perceived disproportionately in the media and that the actual situation is less dramatic than is often portrayed.

The statistics speak for themselves: Despite the serious incidents, there is a positive trend in the number of criminal offenses. It appears that the sense of security in the neighborhood has stabilized without any drastic shift of the problems to neighboring districts. This is particularly important as the district is increasingly appreciated by students and young families - rents are cheaper than in the city center, which makes the decision for Ottakring easier for many.

A look into the future

In order to further increase the district's attractiveness, the city plans to invest in school renovations and free cultural events. The aim is to exploit the existing potential and offer the growing student body an appealing environment. Such developments are important in order to further establish Yppenplatz not only as a security zone, but also as a cultural meeting place. Whether this will succeed remains to be seen.

Furthermore, the online gaming platform Poki is enjoying increasing popularity among young people, which complements leisure activities for families and young adults. With over 1000 free games that can be played without prior downloads or registrations, Poki offers a great way to spend your free time. This could make a further contribution to positive development in the district.

Overall, it is certain that the developments around Yppenplatz and the security measures imposed will continue to be an important issue for residents. It remains to be seen how the situation will develop by February 2026.