Aktenzeichen XY: Germany’s Enduring Public Fahndung Show Continues to Crack Cold Cases

Mainz, 21 January 2026 – For nearly six decades, the German television programme “Aktenzeichen XY … ungelöst” (Case Number XY … Unsolved) has bridged the gap between the public and the police. The iconic show, a staple of ZDF’s schedule since 1967, leverages viewer tips to solve crimes that have baffled investigators. As it enters 2026, the format remains a powerful tool, with recent broadcasts in late 2025 generating hundreds of new leads for cold cases and active investigations.

The “XY” Formula: Public Participation in Policing

Conceived by Eduard Zimmermann and currently moderated by Rudi Cerne, “Aktenzeichen XY” operates on a simple yet effective premise. Each 90-minute episode, broadcast on Wednesday evenings, presents three to five unsolved criminal cases—primarily serious offences like murder, rape, or major fraud. These are depicted through dramatic reconstructions and studio discussions. Viewers are then urged to call or go online with any relevant information. According to the show’s own research, this public assistance leads to the resolution of roughly 40% of the cases featured.

The format has proven so successful it has been adapted worldwide, most notably as Crimewatch in the UK and America’s Most Wanted in the United States. Domestically, it has inspired spin-offs like XY gelöst (XY Solved) and the update programme XY … Update, which provides follow-ups on investigations shortly after the main broadcast.

Key Facts: Aktenzeichen XY … ungelöst

Recent Impact: New Leads from 2025 Broadcasts

Episodes from late 2025 demonstrated the programme’s ongoing relevance. Following the broadcast on 8 October 2025, investigator Fabian Puchelt from the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office (LKA) reported significant new leads in three cases:

• 1973 Berlin Cold Case: The murder of 12-year-old Reiner Koch. New witnesses came forward after the broadcast, offering potential insights from the time.
• International Stock Fraud (“Pump and Dump”): Approximately 60 tips were received, including information identifying a suspect in Siegsdorf, Upper Bavaria, leading to international manhunt measures.
• Attempted Murder Manhunt: About 25 tips were generated in the search for Bartosz Kwiecinski, including photos and videos from the public that aided identification efforts.

Similarly, the 26 November 2025 episode prompted updates on the 1986 murder of five-year-old Zeynep in Neuenrade and two violent robberies, with investigators receiving crucial new witness statements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cases are featured on Aktenzeichen XY?

The show focuses exclusively on serious, unsolved crimes such as murder, manslaughter, severe sexual assault, and major armed robberies. Cases are only presented after conventional police investigations have stalled and a judge has approved the public appeal.

How can viewers submit tips?

During and after the live broadcast, viewers can contact a dedicated studio via telephone hotlines or through secure online forms provided on the ZDFheute website. All tips are forwarded directly to the relevant police investigation teams.

Has the show ever been controversial?

Yes. There have been rare instances of mistaken identities or wrongful accusations based on viewer tips, such as the 1992 case of Donald Stellwag. The editorial team maintains strict protocols and works closely with law enforcement to minimise such risks, and cases are carefully selected to avoid inflaming social tensions.

Where can I watch Aktenzeichen XY?

The main show airs on ZDF. Recent episodes and specials like XY … Update are available for streaming on the ZDF Mediathek. The international streaming service MHz Choice also offers a selection of episodes with English subtitles for viewers outside Germany.