Security forces blow up suspicious letter sent to German president Joachim Gauck
Mail was suspected of containing explosives
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.German authorities say they have destroyed a letter addressed to the country's president that was suspected of containing explosives.
A spokesman for President Joachim Gauck's office said the letter was found during routine checks on mail today. Experts then decided to carry out a controlled detonation of the letter in the park outside the president's Bellevue palace in downtown Berlin.
It was not immediately clear whether the letter actually contained any explosives. Germany's Federal Criminal Police Office, which was responsible for the operation, declined immediate comment.
The spokesman said there was no danger to Gauck, Germany's largely ceremonial head of state, who was not on the premises at the time. He spoke on condition of anonymity in line with department rules.
AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments