Some 5,000 caught drinking at German train stations despite new ban

German national rail operator Deutsche Bahn caught around 5,000 people drinking alcohol at its stations in the first week after a nationwide ban came into force, the company said on Sunday.

Chief executive Evelyn Palla hailed the ban's initial success, telling the Bild newspaper: "The clear message is having an effect."

"We want safe and clean stations. And many passengers are making it very clear: This was long overdue."

Security personnel initially inform those caught drinking of the new rules, according to Bild. Most people have been cooperative and put away their alcohol, with only a handful of cases requiring people to be ordered to leave station premises.

Since October 15, drinking alcohol has been prohibited at all Deutsche Bahn stations across Germany, including on platforms.

The ban is intended to improve safety and cleanliness at railway stations.

Restaurants and bars located inside stations are exempt from the restrictions.

Passengers are also generally still permitted to drink alcohol on trains, with Deutsche Bahn continuing to sell alcoholic beverages in the onboard bistros of long-distance services.