Prague's Municipal House evacuated after bomb threat at Czech Ball event

Prague police evacuated the Municipal House on Saturday night following a bomb threat that interrupted the Czech Ball (Český ples), one of the capital’s premier social events. About 500 attendees were forced to leave the historic venue while police, including bomb disposal experts, searched the building.

Authorities later confirmed no explosive device was found, and guests were allowed to return after more than an hour. The police are investigating the incident as a criminal offense, with an unidentified suspect accused of spreading false information.

"We are searching for the unknown perpetrator who reported the placement of an explosive device and is now suspected of the crime of spreading false alarms," Prague police spokesperson Eva Kropáčová said.

Authorities first announced the evacuation via social media at around 9:45 p.m. through their social media accounts.

"In connection with the report of an explosive device in the Municipal House in Prague 1, police officers are evacuating the entire building. A full inspection of the premises will follow. About 500 people are inside. Police have also closed the immediate vicinity for security reasons," Prague police stated on X.

Emergency services, including firefighters and paramedics, were dispatched to the scene. The Prague emergency medical service deployed a special Fénix vehicle to assist attendees, but no medical interventions were needed.

"In the Fénix vehicle we provided shelter for several individuals, but fortunately, the entire situation passed without the need for [medical] intervention," the service posted on X.

After completing a thorough search of the building, police confirmed the absence of any explosive threat shortly after 11 p.m. and lifted the security measures.

"Prague police officers, along with bomb technicians, conducted a full inspection of the building and ruled out any risk," authorities stated.

The evacuation interrupted the seventh annual Czech Ball, a prestigious black-tie event celebrating Czech culture, which took place in the Municipal House’s Art Nouveau halls. This year’s theme focused on love, with floral decorations and a program featuring live music and a charity auction.

The gala, hosted by actor Jan Čenský and model Iveta Vítová Lutovská, had been scheduled to include performances by several Czech artists and British singer Danyl Johnson. A charity auction to support three children was also planned.

Despite the disruption, organizers resumed the event once authorities declared the venue safe. While no injuries were reported, the false alarm led to an evening of confusion and concern among guests.

Police continue to investigate the individual responsible for the bomb threat, with potential legal consequences for spreading false information and causing unnecessary panic.