A routine police operation turned into unprecedented chaos on Germany's famous Autobahn when a couple's daring cattle theft sparked a dramatic high-speed pursuit that ended with cows roaming freely across the busy motorway.
The Great Bovine Escape
The extraordinary incident unfolded on the A2 motorway near Hanover, where authorities were forced to completely shut down sections of the road after several cows escaped from a trailer during a police chase. The animals wandered across carriageways, creating what German police described as an "extremely dangerous" situation for both motorists and the escaped livestock.
According to police reports, the chaos began when officers attempted to stop a vehicle pulling a cattle trailer. Rather than complying, the driver accelerated away, initiating a pursuit that would ultimately lead to motorway madness.
Motorway Lockdown
Emergency services scrambled to contain the situation as the escaped cows created massive disruption on one of Germany's busiest transport routes. The A2, a crucial east-west artery connecting Berlin with the Ruhr region, was brought to a complete standstill in both directions.
"We had to secure the animals first and get them to safety," a police spokesperson explained. The operation required specialist animal handlers and significant resources to safely round up the frightened cattle from the dangerous motorway environment.
Massive Clean-Up Operation
The aftermath of the bovine breakout required an extensive clean-up operation. Police confirmed that several animals were injured during the incident and required veterinary attention. Tragically, at least one cow died as a result of the chaotic events.
Commuters and long-distance travellers faced hours of delays as recovery teams worked to clear the scene. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise on even the most sophisticated transport networks.
Ongoing Investigation
German authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident, with the couple involved in the initial cattle theft facing multiple charges. The episode has raised questions about transport regulations and security measures for livestock transportation on high-speed roads.
As normal traffic flow gradually resumed, motorists were left with an unforgettable story of the day cows brought Germany's efficient Autobahn system to a grinding halt.
