Frankfurt/Marburg (dpa/lhe) – A few days before New Year’s Eve, customs investigators seized illegal fireworks and dangerous chemicals on a large scale in Central Hesse. The officers came across an “explosive mixture” during a search of the apartment, the Frankfurt Customs Investigation Office said on Tuesday. A 45-year-old suspect was temporarily arrested.
According to the announcement, the investigators secured more than 950 fireworks from other European countries, some of which required a permit, during their mission last week in the Marburg-Biedenkopf district. In addition, around 10 kilos of chemicals and various equipment for the production of “explosive substances”, a professional firework igniter and a gun.
Police special forces had previously arrested the suspect. He was suspected of having ordered weapons – in particular a submachine gun. There were also indications that the 45-year-old was dealing with explosive substances. The man does not have the necessary permits to handle explosives or weapons.
The operation was complex: the explosive devices, including some that were self-made, and the chemicals were “not entirely safe to handle,” according to the customs office. Therefore, the investigators were supported, among other things, by explosives detection dogs from the Federal Police and the defused service of the Hessian State Criminal Police Office in securing and removing the sensitive substances.
The suspect was reportedly released. He is being investigated for violations of the Weapons and Explosives Act. According to a spokesman for the Marburg public prosecutor, there is no evidence of an extremist background.
The customs office said: “Especially in the days before New Year’s Eve, fireworks of unknown origin or with poor processing are offered and imported.” In the worst case, the use of such rockets and firecrackers could have life-threatening consequences. In addition, there were criminal consequences.
