Illegal Fireworks Trade: 45-Year-Old in Court - Berlin father and sons accused of running illegal pyrotechnics ring from home
A 45-year-old man from Berlin-Neukölln is facing serious charges after allegedly running an illegal pyrotechnics trade with his two teenage sons. Authorities uncovered roughly 200 kilograms of explosive materials in his family apartment, alongside €50,800 in suspected illegal earnings. The man is also accused of defrauding pandemic relief funds six years ago.
The investigation began after prosecutors discovered the man had handled explosive materials without permits on 53 separate occasions between November and December 2023. A search of his Neukölln apartment revealed a large stockpile of pyrotechnics, including over 6,000 Category F4 fireworks—restricted to licensed technicians only.
The defendant admitted to buying and selling 'large quantities' of pyrotechnics but denied any link to the seized cash. He claimed earnings of around €8,000 from sales, though investigators suspect the €50,800 found was tied to the illegal trade. The operation allegedly involved a 'clandestine online business,' accepting orders nationwide for in-person or postal delivery. Prosecutors state the man and his sons used social media and encrypted messaging to facilitate sales. Additionally, he faces fraud charges for submitting nine false applications for pandemic emergency aid, securing €29,000 under false pretenses in 2018. No other individuals were arrested in connection with this case.
The case involves multiple charges, including illegal explosives handling, fraud, and online trade violations. The defendant's trial will determine the extent of his involvement in the pyrotechnics trade and the misuse of pandemic funds. Authorities have confirmed no further arrests beyond the accused and his two sons.
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