Germany: Police disperse protesters in Berlin August 29 /update 1

Event

Police have dispersed thousands of protesters who gathered on Saturday, August 29, in Berlin against restrictions imposed during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. While the demonstration remained largely peaceful, police said that protesters were dispersed because most failed to comply with requirements by not wearing face masks and not maintaining social distancing. The majority of the estimated 20,000 protesters have disbanded peacefully; however, a few have resisted and blocked roads in the capital. Multiple arrests were made on Saturday.

Further associated demonstrations are possible in Berlin in the near term as protesters have called for further demonstrations in the coming days.

A heightened security presence and localized disruptions are possible in the vicinity of all demonstrations.

Advice

Those in Berlin are advised to monitor developments, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.