Authorities in Germany, Austria, and Hungary are investigating multiple incidents where sharp objects were found embedded in Halloween candy. Police have urged parents to thoroughly inspect sweets given to children.
In Germany, reports have emerged from various states, including Bavaria and Lower Saxony. A nine-year-old girl in Bremervörde, near Hamburg, reportedly hurt her tongue on a pin measuring approximately 5cm (2in) that was found inside a chocolate bar.
Hungary has launched a criminal investigation following discoveries of nails, screws, and pieces of wire in sweets distributed in and around Gyömrő, east of Budapest. The local authority stated that one young girl was given a toffee with a nail inside its chocolate wrapper, but she fortunately noticed it before consuming it.
Austria has also reported several cases. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner condemned these acts as "cowardly, malicious and in some cases life-threatening." The full extent of the incidents is still being determined, but the focus remains on ensuring child safety during festive occasions.