US: Police arrest several protesters following clashes in Portland August 22 /update 11

Event

Police have stated on Sunday, August 23, that 14 protesters have been arrested overnight on Saturday, August 22, following clashes between opposing groups of demonstrators and the security forces. According to the statement, violent clashes took places rival groups and police officers were hit by paintballs, bottles, and rocks during protests. The gatherings were declared a riot shortly after midnight on Saturday as around 250 protesters dressed in black attempted to march on a government building carrying shields and wearing gas masks and helmets. While the use of tear gas by police officers has not been reported on Saturday, other crowd-control munitions were used.

Further associated demonstrations are possible in the area in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions are possible in the vicinity of all demonstrations.

Context

Protests began worldwide after US citizen George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on May 25. The four arresting police officers were subsequently fired and detained, and one has since been charged with second-degree murder. Protests have since spread to several cities across the US, with solidarity protests taking place throughout the world.

Advice

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