Germany's New Year celebrations were marked by both festivity and chaos, as Berlin police arrested approximately 330 individuals for dangerous use of fireworks.
The arrests were part of an extensive security operation aimed at maintaining public safety during the revelry, authorities reported on Wednesday.
Despite the arrests, police officials deemed the night a success overall, with most detentions related to violations of laws governing fireworks and weapons.
Berlin enforces strict regulations, prohibiting fireworks in designated areas and allowing their use only between 6 PM on New Year’s Eve and 7 AM on New Year’s Day. Violators face fines of up to €10,000.
The night wasn’t without incidents; 13 police officers sustained injuries during the celebrations, one of whom required surgery due to injuries likely caused by unlicensed fireworks.
Over 4,000 officers were deployed across Berlin to patrol the streets and ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Police also escorted firefighters during emergency operations to prevent any disruptions.
In a separate incident, a 24-year-old man tragically lost his life while handling fireworks in the German town of Gieseke.
Police reported that the incident occurred before midnight, with initial investigations suggesting the fireworks were unlicensed.
Emergency services were alerted at 10:40 PM on Tuesday, and the explosion occurred during a private family New Year’s gathering in the outskirts of the town.
No other injuries were reported, and the criminal police have launched an investigation into the matter.
Follow the latest news on Google News
