Berlin explosion at Stuttgarter Platz triggers police investigation

An explosion occurred at Stuttgarter Platz in the Berlin-Charlottenburg district, prompting a major police response. Witnesses reported a loud blast, and investigators believe the device may have been a hand grenade or a fragmentation grenade. The explosion caused damage to two vehicles, with shrapnel also striking a third car and the windows of a nearby apartment.

The Police Union (GdP) has expressed concern regarding the increasing danger to the public, noting that organized criminals are increasingly willing to use explosives in city centers during feuds or competition for business territories. Authorities also noted that weapons related to the conflict in Ukraine have contributed to the arming of organized crime groups in Germany.

The Berlin State Criminal Police Office's special unit, 'Ferrum', is investigating the incident. This unit focuses on combating violent groups and firearm crime, often linked to extortion attempts against business owners.