Customs increases controls: Illegal fireworks from Poland in sight!

Customs increases controls: Illegal fireworks from Poland in sight!

In the contemplative time around the turn of the year, we are once again looking at the explosive issue of illegal fireworks. Customs have once again tightened their controls at the borders with Poland following the unpleasant events of recent years. Nordkurier reports that, especially in the border region of Western Pomerania, many people buy fireworks abroad. The purchases are often illegal items that can result in more serious injuries.

Customs and federal police have made it their mission to contain these dangers. The authorities use special operations and continuous controls to try to prevent the import of illegal pyrotechnics. What is particularly striking is that 37,542 illegal fireworks had already been seized by mid-December 2025 - an increase compared to the 16,521 pieces in the whole of 2024. Nevertheless, the total number of detections so far is significantly lower at 47 compared to the 126 in the previous year Stern informed.

The numbers speak for themselves

Sales in the fireworks industry reached a record value of 197 million euros at the turn of the year 2024/2025. This shows that despite all the warnings, interest in pyrotechnic products remains unbroken. Above all, illegal firecrackers, which are often transported in luggage or vehicles, pose a risk. In June 2025, for example, a large find of 36,000 illegal firecrackers was seized at the Pomellen border crossing. The customs authority reported over 4.4 tons of illegal fireworks confiscated in recent months.

The situation has continued to change in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Despite extensive control measures, the number of illegal products identified remains below the previous year's figures. Last weekend, 5.5 kilograms of illegal pyrotechnics were also discovered in several cases on the German-Polish border. The people checked were unable to provide the necessary permits and quickly faced legal consequences.

The trend towards illegal fireworks

One thing is certain: the production of illegal fireworks takes place predominantly in Poland, where the sale of pyrotechnics is permitted all year round. In contrast, the sale of F2 fireworks, such as rockets, is only permitted in this country at certain times. In addition, the purchase of more dangerous pyrotechnics (F3 and F4) requires special permits. The authorities therefore appeal to all citizens to adhere to the applicable laws and not to purchase or market unauthorized products.

The topic of fireworks not only polarizes the public, but also causes discussions on a political level. Various organizations are calling for a general ban on firecrackers and rockets. There is still a lot of room for debate regarding possible protection zones in cities and more comprehensive regulations for the use of fireworks technology.

Whether you're in a celebratory mood or not, it's time to use fireworks responsibly and protect both yourself and others.