Skip to content

Police Find Over 200 Illegal Firecrackers in Neukölln

Grasshoppers, Rockets, and Cartridges: Police in Neukölln Discover a Whole Arsenal of Banned Fireworks. How Dangerous Are These Findings?

In this image we can see so many people are standing and they are burning crackers.
In this image we can see so many people are standing and they are burning crackers.

Police Find Over 200 Illegal Firecrackers in Neukölln

Police in Berlin have seized a large stash of illegal fireworks alongside a firearm and ammunition. The operation took place in the Neukölln district, where officers confiscated over 200 high-powered pyrotechnics. Authorities have warned that such items pose a major risk of serious injury if used improperly.

The raid in Neukölln uncovered more than 200 F4-category fireworks, known as Vogelschrecken. These powerful devices require special permits under German law, as they far exceed the legal limit for public use. Officers also found a blank-firing gun, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and nearly €1,500 in cash.

In Germany, only F1 and F2 fireworks are allowed for private New Year’s Eve celebrations. F3 and F4 pyrotechnics demand official approval due to their explosive strength. Police have stepped up efforts to combat the illegal trade, including monitoring online sales. The seized materials included ten unmarked firework rockets, which lack safety certifications. No names of suspects have been released in connection with the Neukölln case. However, similar operations across Berlin have led to large confiscations, such as 800 kg of illegal pyrotechnics seized in November 2025 from three unnamed men in Charlottenburg and Wedding.

The confiscated items remain under investigation, with authorities stressing the dangers of unregulated fireworks. Illegal pyrotechnics can cause severe harm, and police continue to target their distribution. The crackdown reflects ongoing efforts to enforce fireworks laws ahead of major celebrations.

Read also:

Latest