Shock in Glinde: Police stop huge amounts of illegal fireworks!

Shock in Glinde: Police stop huge amounts of illegal fireworks!

There are currently numerous developments in Schleswig-Holstein that are both politically and socially important. On December 23, 2025, one day before the fourth Advent, the focus will be on two topics: the discussion about illegal fireworks and the proposal for a nationwide sugar tax.

Prime Minister Daniel Günther (CDU) has put forward a proposal for a nationwide sugar tax, which is met with divided opinions in the debate. Karl Lauterbach (SPD) thinks the idea makes sense, while others, such as Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) and Federal Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer (CSU), are skeptical. Klingbeil sees the introduction of a sugar tax as problematic because the current coalition agreement does not provide for this. Ines Schwerdtner from the Left instead calls for better labeling of sugar by manufacturers in order to protect consumers.

Fireworks safety concerns

But where there is light, there is also shadow: The police in Glinde (Stormarn district) recently succeeded in cracking down on the illegal trade in pyrotechnics. Almost half a ton of banned fireworks were seized and a 19-year-old suspect and three buyers were temporarily arrested. This follows the arrest of five teenagers the previous week for similar offences. The Federal Association for Pyrotechnics and Artistic Fireworks warns that illegal fireworks on New Year's Eve often lead to serious injuries.

In a frightening trend, Germany recorded several injuries, including deaths, last New Year's Eve attributed to the use of illegal fireworks. Ingo Schubert, a board member of the association, explained that the dangers of unauthorized explosives cannot be compared with safe, certified firecrackers and rockets.

Customs measures against illegal imports

In addition, an extensive collection of illegal pyrotechnics was seized at Hanover customs. More than 4.4 tonnes of illegal fireworks were confiscated after a parcel service pointed out suspicious shipments. The packages came from Poland and were intended for recipients throughout Germany. These incidents highlight the importance of safety measures and the need to limit access to illegal fireworks. Consumers are encouraged to rely on authorized dealers when purchasing fireworks, as violating the Explosives Act can have significant legal consequences.

Overall, it is clear that both the question of sugar taxes and the problem of illegal fireworks raise deeper social and security policy questions. While some voices call for clear regulation and education, others are politically and economically critical of the proposed measures.

There will be numerous debates in Schleswig-Holstein in the coming weeks. The current developments surrounding food policy and security issues make it clear that there is a need for action here. If it is possible to bring the various stakeholders together, this could lead to progress for all citizens in the region.

For more information on these topics, please visit the website NDR, The time and Customs.