Germany is considering a proposal to ban fireworks.

“Year after year, our employees dedicate all their energy, forgoing New Year celebrations to be present for others. In return, they risk their lives and health, as firecrackers are used as weapons against them. We understand that a ban won't solve the entire issue. However, it is an important step towards enhancing the safety of our emergency services on New Year's Eve,” the statement reads.

The head of the German Ministry of the Interior, Nancy Faeser, announced tougher sanctions against anyone who deliberately attacks police officers and public servants. She intends to advocate for such crimes to be punishable by prison terms of up to five years.

“Young people are no longer satisfied with mere sparks. 'Kugelbomben' (powerful pyrotechnic charges - ed.) with greater explosive power have started to detonate even in crowds,” noted Jochen Kopelke, federal chairman of the police union.

On New Year's Eve in Germany, five people lost their lives due to careless handling of fireworks, and dozens were injured.

In Berlin, 13 police officers sustained serious injuries, and 330 individuals were detained. In Leipzig, around 150 young people shot fireworks at each other, aimed at cars and trams, and set garbage bins on fire. In Hamburg, Dresden, Gelsenkirchen, and other cities, police officers, firefighters, and rescue workers were also attacked with firecrackers.