German customs seize loaded firearm and ammo in A30 motorway stop
Customs officers in Osnabrück seized a firearm and ammunition during a routine vehicle check on the A30 motorway. The discovery took place on January 13, 2026, after the car was stopped for further inspection at Bentheimer Wald rest area. The occupants claimed they were not carrying any illegal items.
The vehicle first caught the attention of officers while travelling from the Netherlands. It was then directed to the Bentheimer Wald rest area for a closer examination. Inside, customs officials found a firearm in the rear footwell, complete with a loaded magazine containing 17 rounds.
A sighting device and disposable gloves were also recovered alongside the weapon. Despite the occupants denying any knowledge of weapons, narcotics, cannabis, or large sums of cash, the firearm and ammunition were immediately confiscated. Authorities subsequently launched criminal proceedings under Germany’s Weapons Act (Waffengesetz). The Essen Customs Investigation Office has since taken charge of the case.
The seized firearm and ammunition remain in custody as the investigation continues. Criminal proceedings are now underway, with the Essen Customs Investigation Office leading the inquiry. The case centres on suspected violations of Germany’s strict weapons regulations.
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