Jena, June 10, 2026. A 19-year-old man triggered a major police operation at the Jena bus station on Tuesday night after threatening passers-by with a blank-firing pistol. The alerted police were able to apprehend the intoxicated youth, who was also under the influence of drugs, on site.
- What: Police operation due to threats with a blank-firing weapon
- When: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, around 00:10
- Where: Bus station „Am Volksbad“, Jena
- Investigations: Suspicion of threat, violations of the Weapons Act (Waffengesetz), acting under the influence of alcohol and drugs (1.3 per mille breath alcohol and positive cannabis pre-test)
Witness alerts emergency services
The incident occurred in the early minutes of Tuesday around 00:10. Witnesses observed a person handling a blank-firing pistol at the central bus station „Am Volksbad“. According to current findings, the 19-year-old suspect held the weapon in his hand and repeatedly pointed it at passing pedestrians.
Although the young man did not directly address the affected persons according to the current state of the investigation, his behavior caused significant concern. A 43-year-old witness felt acutely threatened by the situation and immediately notified the police via emergency call, whereupon several patrol cars were dispatched to the scene.
Weapon secured – Alcohol and drug test positive
The responding police officers were able to encounter and secure the suspect still at the bus station. During the subsequent search, the emergency services secured the pistol. A closer inspection of the weapon revealed that it was an unloaded blank-firing pistol.
As part of the police measures, officers conducted breath alcohol and drug tests on site. The 19-year-old’s alcohol test showed a value of 1.3 per mille. In addition, a drug pre-test reacted positively to the consumption of cannabis. The police initiated investigations into the suspicion of threat as well as possible violations of the Waffengesetz.
🛡️ Prevention & Advice: Weapons Law and the Small Firearms License
The carrying of blank-firing, irritant, and signal weapons (SRS weapons) in public is strictly regulated in Germany. Anyone wishing to carry such a weapon ready for use outside their own home, business premises, or their own enclosed property must have the so-called Small Firearms License (Kleiner Waffenschein).
However, it is important to note: Even with the Small Firearms License, carrying a weapon openly is prohibited – it must always be transported concealed. Furthermore, an absolute ban on weapons applies at public events, festivals, or demonstrations. Unauthorized shooting in public constitutes a significant administrative offense. Misuse can lead not only to the withdrawal of the firearms license but also to significant criminal consequences.
Source:
Police operation in Jena: 19-year-old with blank-firing pistol causes a stir at the bus station
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.