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Dutch New Year’s Eve Fireworks Crackdown Intensifies With Major Seizures and Local Bans

A sales surge driven by expectations of a national fireworks ban is colliding with tightened enforcement and safety measures.

Overview

  • Police shut a fireworks shop in Groenlo, seized about 10,000 kilograms with EOD support, arrested the seller, and sealed storage sites after finding noncompliant and modified stock.
  • Regional vehicle checks earlier this week led to 4,800 kilograms confiscated, and an anonymous tip in Woerden yielded 96 kilograms and a municipal penalty order for repeat violations.
  • Officers were attacked with fireworks in several incidents, including a Rotterdam case that injured a policewoman and led to the arrest of a 15-year-old suspect.
  • Authorities are using targeted tools to maintain order, including area bans for 15 youths in Oldebroek carrying €3,000 penalties, temporary cameras, and controlled bonfires in select areas.
  • Consumer demand is elevated with sellers reporting up to 30% higher pre-sales, long queues formed at oliebollen stands, and carbidschieten events continued under strict, municipality-specific rules as emergency services urged calling 112 only for life-threatening situations.