The Polizei has arrested three suspects in Neuzelle in the Oder-Spree district more than a kilogram on 1 November 2026 cannabis from a household rubbish bin was seized. Neighbours had seen a 22-year-old man throw away a large bag and alerted the police. Officers reportedly found numerous small, individually packaged bags inside, with a total weight of more than a kilogram.
According to police, the man said he had been clearing out his flat and that the quantity had become “too much” for him. Based on initial findings, investigators do not believe the substance had been stored for immediate resale. Police seized the drugs and opened proceedings for a breach of the Cannabis Act for the operation.
Germany’s Cannabis Act allows adults to possess small quantities for personal use, but sets clear limits. Up to 25 grams are permitted in public and up to 50 grams of dried cannabis at home. The quantity seized in Neuzelle is significantly above these thresholds. Possession of such quantities can already have criminal consequences; if there are indications of trafficking or supplying others, more serious charges may be considered. The assessment in this particular case will depend on the ongoing investigation.
The police gave no information about how long the bag had been in the rubbish bin or whether anyone else was involved. The police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Decisions on measures such as seizure, possible conditions, discontinuing the case or bringing charges will be made once the investigation has concluded.
The incident highlights how tips from neighbours often prompt police action when a crime is suspected. At the same time, carelessly disposing of drugs in household waste poses risks to others, including children and waste-management workers. In such cases, the seized substances are usually analysed and professionally destroyed.
According to regional media reports, this account is based on information from the police. A separate press release from the Police Directorate Brandenburg was not available in the statewide press section by the time of publication. Police stressed that the man’s motive and the origin of the substance are still under investigation.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).