West German Polizei

[Guardian 5]

Hello Gents,

Can anyone identify the agency that these officers represent?

The reporter at left is identified as Ter Horst.

The officer at right can be seen carrying the F.W. Heym version of the Mauser Kar-98k. It was often referred to as the "widow maker" as the receiver walls were notoriously thin and prone to exploding when the rifle was fired.

The image is stamped "May 15 1959."

All the best,
TJ

[HPL2008]

They are customs (Zoll) officials.

Rank was indicated on the collar patches by oak leaves and pips. These were green, silver or gold, depending on the career group.

The collar patches were abolished in 1972.

[Guardian 5]

Thanks!

TJ

[Klaus1989]

nice photo! Another hint, that they are Zoll is the Heym rifles - designated ZK52 (Zollkarabiner). These were only issued to Zoll.

Regards
Klaus

[Guardian 5]

Thanks Klaus!

TJ