Germany: Police deploy water cannon to disperse protesters in Frankfurt November 14

Event

Police have reportedly used water cannons to disperse various groups of protesters in Frankfurt on Saturday, November 14. The protests, which have been referred to as 'lateral thinking demos' by the organizers, reportedly took place throughout the city and were being held in opposition to coronavirus (COVID-19)-related restrictions. The most notable scene of unrest occurred on the corner of Elbestrasse and Niddastrasse, with security forces deploying water cannons to disperse the protesters. Counter-protests also took place in several locations, with demonstrators from both sides moving across the city. No injuries or arrests have been reported thus far, and it believed that the majority of the protesters have since dispersed.

Additional related rallies reportedly took place nationwide on Saturday, with further protests on the subject likely in urban centers nationwide in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized travel disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of any protest. 

Advice

Those in Frankfurt and across Germany are advised to monitor developments relating to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.