Hamburg, Germany – In a significant crackdown on illegal pyrotechnics, police in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein have confiscated several hundred kilograms of dangerous firecrackers. These operations were initiated following a severe firecracker accident in Hamburg-Niendorf, where a 15-year-old suffered grievous hand injuries.
Teenager’s Accident Leads to Arrests and Seizures
Approximately two weeks ago, a 15-year-old in Hamburg sustained severe hand injuries when a bundle of firecrackers exploded prematurely. Civilian investigators subsequently tracked down and temporarily arrested the suspected seller of the pyrotechnics. Following searches of various residences in the Schleswig-Holstein towns of Itzstedt, Tangstedt, Bargfeld-Stegen, and Wakendorf II, the trail led to a 19-year-old from Hamburg-Billstedt. Police seized several hundred kilograms of illegal fireworks from his possession. He is now under investigation on suspicion of distributing illegal and regulated pyrotechnics.
Police Successes Ahead of New Year’s Eve
In a separate investigation, police raided several apartments in the Hamburg districts of Steilshoop and Wilhelmsburg. According to police statements, these properties were being used as weapons and explosives depots. Items seized included blank-firing weapons, batons, masking materials, and highly explosive firecrackers. These investigations are linked to attacks on police and firefighters during the 2024/25 New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Hamburg Customs Intercepts Thousands of Illegal Firecrackers
The prohibited firecrackers were reportedly sent by post from Poland. Customs authorities have issued a warning against purchasing pyrotechnics from abroad, emphasizing the inherent dangers of unregulated products.
Firecracker Ban for New Year’s Eve in Central Hamburg
A ban on firecrackers will be enforced at the Binnenalster and Rathausmarkt from December 31st at 6 PM until January 1st at 1 AM. Additionally, the use of firecrackers is prohibited near certain facilities throughout Hamburg, aiming to ensure public safety during the New Year’s celebrations.
Previous Incidents Highlight Dangers
This recent seizure underscores the ongoing risks associated with illegal pyrotechnics. Earlier incidents include three boys, aged 10 to 14, being injured when a firecracker exploded in a schoolyard in Niendorf. Two of them required hospital treatment, further illustrating the severe consequences of mishandling such devices.
Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise extreme caution and adhere to all regulations regarding pyrotechnics to prevent further accidents and ensure a safe festive season.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/mehrere-hundert-kilogramm-illegale-pyrotechnik-beschlagnahmt,boeller-112.html
