Czech news in brief for December 28: Sunday’s top morning headlines

Police evacuated around 1,500 people from the Gallery shopping center in Teplice (Ústí nad Labem) after receiving an anonymous shooting threat on Saturday afternoon. Officers searched the building and later confirmed there was no danger. The mall reopened to the public in the evening. Police are now looking for the unknown caller, who is suspected of spreading panic, and are investigating the incident as a false threat.

Volvo Car Czech Republic removed a large advertising billboard in central Prague after it was found to violate local advertising regulations. The billboard used special technology designed to reduce air pollution, with effects comparable to hundreds of trees. Despite the environmental intent, city rules prohibit such tarpaulins in protected zones. Volvo said it acted in good faith and relied on its supplier to ensure legal compliance.

The first supermoon of 2026 will occur on Jan. 3, when the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth while fully illuminated. At a distance of just over 362,000 kilometers, the so-called Wolf Moon will appear larger and brighter than usual. The event will coincide with the peak of the Quadrantid meteor shower, one of the most active meteor displays of the year.

Stricter regulations on fireworks are prompting Czech cities to alter New Year celebrations. Some municipalities are replacing fireworks with light or drone shows, while others are moving launch sites away from restricted areas near hospitals, schools and animal shelters. While cities like Brno continue to avoid fireworks, others in South Moravia and northern regions still plan traditional displays under the new conditions.

The Czech state administration could lose up to 30,000 qualified employees within five years due to aging staff and low recruitment, according to a Kearney study. Young workers make up only a small share of civil servants, while retirements are accelerating. Experts warn that without attracting more talent, especially IT specialists, plans for digitalization, climate reform, and budget stability may be difficult to achieve.