Following a tumultuous New Year's celebration marked by violence and injuries, over 1 million people in Germany have signed a petition calling for a nationwide ban on private fireworks.

The petition, initiated by the Police Union (GdP) in Berlin, highlights the urgent need to address the dangers posed by illegal fireworks, particularly bomb rockets that have caused severe injuries and property damage.

This year's celebrations saw targeted attacks on emergency responders and police officers, prompting outrage and calls for action to enhance safety measures.

The GdP emphasized that excessive violence against police during the celebrations is a critical issue that must be addressed through legislative action.

In one alarming incident, an explosion of a bomb rocket in Berlin-Schöneberg rendered 36 apartments uninhabitable, illustrating the serious impact of these incidents on community safety.

Tragically, two individuals in Saxony lost their lives while handling bomb rockets, further underscoring the dangers associated with their use.

The use of illegal fireworks not only led to injuries but also resulted in property damage and attacks on police and first responders, leading to around 400 temporary arrests.

GdP spokesperson Benjamin Jendro stated that both state and federal levels must take action, asserting there are no legal obstacles to implementing a ban.

Clinics reported severe injuries, including amputated fingers and hands, resulting from the use of powerful illegal fireworks resembling historical cannonballs.

Despite the growing support for the ban, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser have publicly opposed its implementation.

Stephan Weh, the GdP state chairman, noted that the petition aims to protect police officers from the violence associated with fireworks.

The petition, which has garnered approximately 1.01 million signatures, will be formally presented to a representative of the Federal Ministry of the Interior.