Germany is investigating a series of fires caused by incendiary devices concealed inside parcels at a Leipzig warehouse earlier this year, the country’s prosecutor general announced on Tuesday. The incidents have raised alarms across the country, with authorities issuing warnings in August about the circulation of dangerous parcels after similar occurrences were reported in other European countries.
On Monday, Thomas Haldenwang, head of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, revealed to a parliamentary committee that Germany narrowly avoided a potential disaster when an air freight parcel caught fire, threatening a plane crash. During the same hearing, Haldenwang highlighted a sharp rise in Russian espionage and sabotage activities within Germany.
Although authorities have not confirmed a direct connection to Russia, the prosecutor general’s office declined to comment further on the potential link due to the ongoing nature of the investigation into what is being treated as “attempted aggravated arson.”
The affected parcels, containing electronic consumer devices and liquid-filled containers, appeared to have been prepared with the intent of disrupting logistics infrastructure. While the warehouse’s operator did not respond to requests for comment, it was reported in August that their Express parcel delivery network had been impacted. They have since implemented measures to safeguard their staff and facilities amid the ongoing threat.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
