Ahead of New Year’s Eve, Germany has seen a rise in incidents involving fireworks, leading police and fire services to bolster their operations nationwide. The first reports of these incidents have already emerged.
In Berlin, a group of unidentified individuals fired fireworks at a police patrol. On Sunday evening in the Kreuzberg district, a masked person threw a wooden board at a patrol car stopped at a red light, followed by a group of others who launched fireworks at the vehicle. The driver managed to escape unharmed, though the car sustained minor damage. The suspects fled the scene.
In Pforzheim, a police officer and another individual sustained hearing injuries, likely caused by a firecracker explosion. Authorities are investigating and seeking witnesses to the incident.
Additionally, Bavarian police confiscated a large quantity of illegal fireworks during border checks ahead of New Year’s celebrations, with a significant amount coming from the Czech Republic. In Neustadt, officers seized hundreds of firecrackers, rockets, and launchers from travelers, amounting to over 43 kilograms of explosives.
To prevent violence and ensure safety during the traditional fireworks-heavy New Year’s celebrations, law enforcement has increased its presence across Germany.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser confirmed that measures would be implemented to address any violence or disorder on New Year’s Eve. She reiterated her full support for the police in their efforts to take swift action against those involved in disturbances or violent acts.
