German authorities investigate weapons trafficking and substation sabotage

Authorities in Germany are conducting significant criminal investigations involving weapons trafficking and infrastructure sabotage. In a joint operation by the Frankfurt Customs Investigation Office and the Frankfurt Public Prosecutor's Office, investigators seized 165 semi-automatic short weapons, including counterfeit Glock 9mm Luger pistols, during raids in Cologne and Wuppertal. Six suspects, including individuals of Syrian, German, and Turkish nationality, were arrested in connection with the illegal weapons trade.

Separately, the Cologne Police have expanded their investigation into the sabotage of electrical substations in North Rhine-Westphalia. A 60-person task force is currently evaluating evidence to identify potential further crime scenes across the country. The investigation has recently extended to the Wesel district following the discovery of a cut fence at a substation facility.