The head of the Cologne State Security, Michael Esser, said at a press conference on Thursday afternoon:
We have no indications that these substances – including these combined substances – should be used to make explosives against people or property. It may well be that they should only be prepared for use on New Years Eve.
Michael Esser, Head of State Security in Cologne
Since early Thursday morning, the state security of the Cologne police had searched the apartments of four men, some of whom are assigned to the right-wing extremist scene, with special forces and explosive detection dogs.
The police suspected that the men had bought substances to build an explosive device. During the searches in Nippes, Holweide and Mülheim, the investigators also found raw materials for explosives “Firecracker” found that have been investigated at the State Criminal Police Office.
Police also find drugs during searches
According to the police, cell phones and data carriers are also currently being evaluated by the state security service. In addition, the officers found no small amounts of narcotics during the search. In connection with the drug finds, the four men are brought before the judge. Further investigations are ongoing.
Status: 16.12.2021, 5:02 p.m.