New law on explosives in force
As of the New Year, the purchase by private individuals of substances for the manufacture of explosives will be regulated. Affected on the Swiss market are around 100 products that may contain such ingredients. Depending on the substance and concentration, a special permit from the Fedpol will be required in the future.
In certain concentrations, so-called precursor substances such as hydrogen peroxide in disinfectants can be used to produce homemade explosives. These could theoretically be used by terrorists and criminal organizations for attacks or to blow up ATMs. Private individuals interested in explosives and pyrotechnics could also make use of certain precursors.
Customer portal at Fedpol
A new law has now come into force as of January 1, 2023. Depending on the substance and concentration of specific precursor substances, a special permit issued by the Federal Office of Police (Fedpol) has been required since then. The special permit is valid for three years. The law regulates, among other things, the acquisition, possession, transfer and sale, but also the import and export of precursors for explosive mixtures. The provision of such substances on the market and the manufacture of explosives by private users are also regulated.
As the Fedpol said in a statement writesIn the Swiss market, around 100 products are affected that could theoretically serve as precursors for the production of explosives. Applications for licenses can be submitted via the Fedpol's customer portal, which is available on the website www.fedpol.admin.ch can be called up. According to the Federal Office, specialist stores that sell products can now also check their licenses there on an ongoing basis.
Source: Fedpol/Editorial Office
