Protests Continue in Berlin Against Virus Restrictions, 45 Police Officers Injured

By Staff, Agencies

Following a huge "day of freedom" rally held in Berlin over the weekend, smaller numbers turned out Sunday to continue the demonstrations against coronavirus restrictions, observing social distancing and wearing face masks.

A total of 45 police officers were injured and 133 people were arrested in Saturday's protests, police said in a statement on Sunday.

The arrests were for offences including resisting police officers, breach of the peace and the use of unconstitutional symbols.

As multiple media outlets indicated, most violent instances took place at a separate anti-fascist protest in the southern Neukoelln district. Protesters threw stones at police officers, let off fireworks and damaged two police vehicles and a local party office.

Several officers were injured while dispersing the crowd, including three who were treated in hospital after being hit in the face by shards of glass.

Meanwhile, the anti-virus restrictions demonstrations that drew thousands of people created a shock wave of criticism, including calls for tougher penalties against those who violate restrictions aimed at curbing transmission of the virus.