Over a Ton of Fireworks Seized Near Berlin as Authorities Prepare for New Year's Eve

As Berlin readies itself for the transition into 2026, authorities have intensified efforts to ensure public safety during the New Year's Eve celebrations. In a significant operation near the city, police forces in Brandenburg have confiscated more than one metric ton of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices following targeted raids in the Havelland region, located just west of Berlin's Spandau district. The discoveries included both legal and permit-required fireworks, as well as improvised explosive devices, some of which may be classified as hazardous ball-shaped bombs. Investigations are ongoing against two suspects for violations of explosives regulations.

This substantial seizure forms part of a broader crackdown on the illegal trade and use of pyrotechnics in Berlin and its surrounding areas. In the weeks leading up to the festivities, police have conducted over 130 business inspections and 14 searches, resulting in the confiscation of approximately 147,000 fireworks, rockets, and explosive devices. Notably, around 108,000 of these were high-powered fireworks typically reserved for professional use. The authorities emphasize that preventing the distribution of such dangerous items has helped avert potential injuries and accidents during the celebrations.

To maintain order and safety throughout the city, the Berlin police have deployed a record 4,300 officers for the New Year's period, significantly more than the usual 1,000 officers on regular nights. The Berlin Fire Department has also increased its presence, with over 2,000 personnel, including both professional and volunteer firefighters, on standby to respond to emergencies. Enhanced resources, such as additional fire engines and ambulances, have been put in place to address the expected surge in incidents related to fires, accidents, and firework injuries.

Special safety zones have been established across the city to restrict the use of fireworks and other weapons. Key locations, including Alexanderplatz, Sonnenallee, Steinmetzkiez, and Admiralbrücke, are now subject to extended bans on pyrotechnics. These measures aim to allow law enforcement to respond more swiftly and flexibly to emerging threats and maintain public safety in areas that have previously experienced disturbances during past celebrations.

Berlin's hospitals are also preparing for the increased demand typical of New Year's Eve. The city's main trauma hospital, Unfallkrankenhaus Berlin (UKB), anticipates treating 250 to 300 patients over the holiday period, with injuries ranging from burns and trauma caused by fireworks to accidents related to icy conditions. Medical staff have expanded capacity, treating the event as a planned major incident. Emergency services are urging the public to celebrate responsibly and to avoid unnecessary strain on medical facilities by only seeking treatment for serious injuries.

Animal welfare concerns have also been raised as the noise and light from fireworks continue to affect pets, zoo animals, and wildlife. The directors of Berlin's Tierpark and Zoological Garden have called for restraint, suggesting that a general ban on fireworks in the city center may be necessary to protect animals from distress caused by the festivities. While animals in these facilities are kept indoors during the celebrations, the impact of premature fireworks and rising air pollution is still a considerable concern.

Berlin remains a major attraction for tourists during the holiday season, with hotel occupancy rates reaching 72 percent, an increase from the previous year's 57 percent. The main New Year's event at the Brandenburg Gate has undergone changes this year, with a new party concept featuring local DJs and cultural programming, after the longstanding televised event relocated to Hamburg. Despite high attendance, all 25,000 free tickets for the Brandenburg Gate celebration have already been distributed, though many hotel rooms remain available for last-minute travelers.

City officials continue to encourage the public to welcome the new year with consideration for others and adherence to regulations. The police and fire services remain on high alert, and the government has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for violence or interference with emergency responders. Authorities hope that the combination of increased security measures, strict enforcement of firework restrictions, and public awareness will ensure a safe and peaceful start to 2026 for Berlin residents and visitors alike.