Germany’s chaotic New Year’s Eve sees explosions, injuries, and arrests

Germany’s New Year celebrations turned chaotic, with emergency services stretched thin due to multiple explosions and violence across the country. Police reported at least four fatalities, linked to fireworks-related injuries, as well as numerous incidents involving attacks on rescue workers. In Berlin, around 320 arrests were made, with emergency services and police being targeted by pyrotechnics. One officer was seriously injured, requiring surgery after being struck by an illegal firework.

In Cologne, two officers were injured by illegal fireworks, and in Leipzig, a group of around 50 people attacked emergency services. Firefighters were also called to multiple fires, including a serious blaze in Neuwied, likely caused by a firework. The fire, which destroyed a timber warehouse, caused extensive damage to nearby buildings. Authorities are investigating the connection to fireworks, which also triggered other smaller blazes across the country.

The German Pyrotechnics Association pointed to illegal fireworks as the root cause of many injuries and deaths, urging authorities to enforce stricter regulations. In contrast, public calls for a total firework ban or stricter restrictions have gained traction. Despite previous attempts to limit fireworks use during the pandemic, the dangers of illegal pyrotechnics continue to overshadow the annual celebrations.

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