29 Aug 2020 | 11:04 AM UTC
Germany: Reports of arrests as tens of thousands gather for protest in Berlin August 29
Reports of arrests being made as over 20,000 people gather for protest against COVID-19 restrictions in Berlin on August 29; avoid all demonstrations as a precaution
Event
Over 20,000 people gathered at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin on Saturday, August 29, to take part in a demonstration against the government's coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. The demonstration was initially banned by city authorities on Wednesday, August 26, citing health concerns. The ban was overturned late Friday night, August 28, by an administrative court in the capital. Around 3,000 police officers have been deployed in the capital ahead of the protest. There have been early reports of scuffles between protesters and police during the demonstration, with multiple arrests being made.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of the demonstration and further clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Advice
Those in Berlin are advised to monitor developments, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
