07 Jun 2024 | 02:35 PM UTC
Germany: Activists to demonstrate in Manheim June 7
AfD supporters to rally at Marktplatz in Mannheim, Germany, from 18:00 June 7. Heightened security, counter-protests likely.
Members of the Alternativ fuer Deutschland (AfD) party are organizing a rally at Marktplatz in Mannheim from 18:00 on June 7. The rally's purpose is to express support for the AfD and denounce Islamism and mass migration. It was not immediately clear how many participants may attend.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the protest site. Counterprotests are likely, and confrontations between rally participants and counterprotesters or law enforcement officers are possible.
Avoid the demonstration area as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling near Marktplatz. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur.
The latest AfD rally comes after two stabbings at similar rallies in the last week in Mannheim. On May 31, multiple participants in a rally against radical Islam were stabbed; one police officer eventually died from his injuries. Subsequently, on June 5, a local AfD candidate was stabbed during a pre-election rally. Both of these attacks have drawn widespread domestic and international condemnation; consequently, the June 7 AfD rally and related counterprotests will likely large crowds. Additionally, security measures will almost certainly be particularly tight in order to prevent a third stabbing attack.
