Police quickly ordered explosives experts to the scene and a unit for analysis of chemical substances.
The evacuation of the Bonn Christmas market came after 10pm. According to police, a suspicious item was noticed in front of the main postal office on the Münsterplatz, the square were the festivities had been set up.
Additionally, witnesses described a person in front of the post office, who deposited suspicious packages in a mailbox.
According to information, the packages may be linked to drugs, as substances were found in about one dozen containers.
But the Analytical Task Force (ATF) from Cologne was called out during the night. The unit specializes in chemical analysis, usually to recognize and combat biological, chemical or radioactive threats.
Police and firefighters were called on-site with a large and visible deployment. Visitors were requested to leave the market.
The explosives experts of the police arrived around an hour later. A robot searched the parcels for explosive materials.
A so-called “special setup” by law enforcement is ongoing. These are usually called when situations are complex and a large number of officers will be needed for an extended period of time.