On January 21, 2025, customs officials at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) discovered an unusual and dangerous cargo in the luggage of a 65-year-old traveler from Saxony-Anhalt. The woman, who had entered the country from Bangkok via Doha, was attempting to import a 36-shot firework battery produced in China into Germany. An incident that not only raises questions about security checks, but could also result in criminal consequences. Customs initiated criminal proceedings on suspicion of violating a ban, as the woman violated the Explosives Act with the illegal firework battery.
The incident occurred during a routine baggage check when the 65-year-old placed her suitcases on the examination table. The officers from the Potsdam main customs office came across the prohibited goods - a firework battery that had neither a CE mark nor the necessary proof of compliance with safety regulations. Fireworks imported into Germany are subject to strict regulations. These include safety certificates and approval from the responsible Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM). Since the firework did not comply with these regulations, it was illegal to bring it into Germany.
According to a statement from the Potsdam main customs office, the woman told officials that she had brought the battery from Thailand for her grandchildren. However, when asked, she was unable to produce a permit or a certificate of competence under the Explosives Act that would have allowed her to transport such dangerous items. It is unclear how exactly the woman was able to bring the fireworks on board the plane, as there are strict international regulations regarding the carrying of dangerous or potentially dangerous items in hand or checked baggage.
Strict regulations for fireworks
In Germany, fireworks that are placed on the market or imported are subject to very strict regulations. The so-called CE marking certifies that a product complies with European safety standards. Even though fireworks are produced under less strict regulations in some countries such as China, it is not permitted to import products without this marking in the EU. In addition, the transport of fireworks in Germany requires a permit, as they are subject to the Explosives Act.
The fact that the woman did not have the required permit or authorization raises questions about international air travel security. It remains unclear how the firework even got through the security check on board the aircraft. A possible failure to pass the security check could have serious consequences, especially considering that fireworks can pose a significant safety risk due to their explosive properties.
Criminal consequences and breaking the ban
In this case, customs initiated criminal proceedings on suspicion of violating a ban. A ban is violated when someone imports, exports or carries goods into a country in violation of a ban. In this case, an investigation is being carried out to determine whether the woman knowingly violated the Explosives Act and the applicable safety regulations. If the investigation reveals that the woman acted intentionally and with knowledge that her actions were illegal, she could face legal consequences.
Breaking the ban is a serious offense that is punished with severe penalties in Germany. In addition to fines, a prison sentence can also be imposed, especially if dangerous or prohibited goods are involved. In this case, the punishment will depend on whether the woman violated the regulations intentionally or negligently and what role the lack of a certificate of competence played in her actions.
Security gaps and the question of control
This incident represents not only a legal challenge, but also a security challenge. The woman was able to smuggle a prohibited firework battery in her luggage, and it is currently unclear how this dangerous object was able to pass the security checks at BER airport. This incident is surprising, especially at a time when international aviation is subject to even stricter security measures following the events of 9/11 and other incidents.
Airport security checks aimed at preventing dangerous items and substances in hand and checked baggage must be continuously reviewed and improved to avoid similar incidents. The case could therefore also lead to a reassessment and strengthening of control measures.
The incident involving the 65-year-old woman at Berlin Brandenburg Airport highlights how important it is that all regulations for the international transport of dangerous goods are strictly observed. It remains to be seen how the case will develop, whether the woman will be prosecuted and how the security authorities will respond to the weaknesses in the control systems. The incident is a reminder of how important it is to comply with security precautions in international air travel - both for travelers and for the general public.
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