Austrian Authorities Confiscate 15,000 Hazardous Fireworks in Tulln and Other Regions

In a coordinated police operation targeting the illegal possession and distribution of dangerous substances, Austrian law enforcement agencies have seized over 15,000 pieces of hazardous pyrotechnics across several federal states, including Lower Austria, Upper Austria, and Styria.

According to official reports, authorities acted on intelligence indicating that several individuals had acquired materials and devices that could potentially be used in activities threatening public order and security. The operation was jointly conducted by the Directorate for State Protection and Intelligence (DSN) alongside the regional departments for State Protection and Extremism Prevention within the police directorates.

During searches at three separate locations in the Tulln district, officers discovered a range of prohibited items. Among the confiscated materials were a belt loaded with tracer ammunition, banned firearms, precursor chemicals, and a significant quantity of illegal fireworks classified under categories F3 and F4. These included highly dangerous spherical fireworks, which pose substantial risks due to their explosive capacity. In addition, authorities secured approximately 2,700 untaxed cigarettes, which were subsequently handed over to customs officials for further inspection.

Elsewhere, a sensitization interview in Upper Austria led to the voluntary surrender of more than 570 illegal pyrotechnic items by one individual. In Styria, another intervention resulted in the confiscation of 65 pieces of illegal fireworks classified as F3 and F4, further contributing to the total number of seized hazardous devices.

In total, the operation identified and charged seven individuals--two women and five men, aged between 17 and 31 years--under Austria's Pyrotechnics Act, Chemicals Act, Firearms Act, and War Materials Act, depending on their specific infractions. The accused now face substantial fines as a result of their actions. During the course of the investigation, a small quantity of cannabis was also found in the possession of one suspect, adding to the legal consequences they may face.

The Ministry of the Interior emphasized the risks associated with unlicensed and illegal pyrotechnic devices, especially during festive periods such as New Year's Eve. The authorities strongly advised the public to refrain from using fireworks or explosives without proper training, noting the severe injuries and accidents that occur annually due to mishandling. The ministry reminded consumers to purchase fireworks exclusively from authorized retailers displaying genuine CE certification, warning that inexpensive products sourced from abroad or online are not only illegal but also highly dangerous. Furthermore, the ministry urged individuals to use such items only in locations where their use is legally permitted and appropriate, in order to minimize risks to public safety and well-being.

This police action underscores the ongoing efforts of Austrian law enforcement to combat the illegal circulation of hazardous materials and to uphold public safety standards, particularly in anticipation of increased pyrotechnic activity during the holiday season.