Countdown to New Year's Night in Bremen
New Year's Eve in Bremen saw a surge of chaos, with over 400 incidents reported - that's a slight increase from the previous year. Revellers caused ruckus at various hotspots like the train station square, Sielwall intersection, Schlachte, and Vegesack train station square. Police were on high alert, cracking down on rule-breakers and broadcasting announcements about the fireworks ban. The Bürgermeister-Smidt Bridge remained incident-free, thankfully.
Among the mayhem, two large groups engaged in a pyrotechnic war near the main station at around 10:40 PM. Loudspeaker announcements failed to deter them, so officers deployed a water cannon, though it wasn't used as the situation soon settled down. Federal Police gave dispersal orders, and the unruly groups dispersed.
Officers and firefighters weren't immune to this reckless behavior. They were targeted with fireworks in specific areas, like the Schlachte and train station square. One officer sustained minor injuries but managed to stay on duty. In Huchting, firefighters faced similar aggression, with the culprits soon caught by the pursuing police. A patrol car in Huckelriede had its windscreen damaged, rendering it unusable. Criminal charges were filed in all cases.
Countless burning vehicles and trash cans were found throughout the city. A Tesla in Kattenturm district burned completely for reasons unknown, while a Mercedes in Oslebshausen and a Porsche in Huchting were also set ablaze. Arson is suspected in all cases. Tips can be shared with the criminal duty office at 0421 362-3888.
"This isn't about tradition anymore," said Interior Senator Ulrich Mäurer. "I owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who ensured our safety during the night, including the police, rescue services, and fire departments. Their tireless efforts deserve the utmost respect."
Unfortunately, these attacks on emergency services and law enforcement officials aren't exclusive to Bremen. Such behavior is unacceptable. Yet the violence and destruction didn't stop there - five deaths, numerous injuries, mountains of trash, and a horrifying ordeal for animals made the night a chaotic nightmare. This senseless, reckless use of fireworks no longer represents tradition - it's time for change.
Illustration: A dazzling but dangerous New Year's Eve
Photo: Unsplash
[1]: Official Bremen Fire Department New Year's Eve events
- The chaotic New Year's Eve in Bremen, despite the festivities, was marked by incidents in general-news, including pyrotechnic wars, attacks on emergency services, and arson in crime-and-justice.
- Amidst the rampant use of fireworks and destruction, the senseless tradition has gone beyond being a mere celebration, leading to a call for change in the realm of politics.
