Monday, 24 March
Neo-Nazi march in Berlin blocked due to counterprotests
A planned far-right march in Friedrichshain on Saturday ended prematurely after counterprotests successfully blocked their path. Around 860 right-wing extremists had gathered near Ostkreuz station, but their demonstration barely made it 50 meters due to the presence of about 2,000 counter-protesters, who staged 15 separate protests along the route.
According to police, 90 people were detained, with 41 arrests linked to far-right offences and 31 linked to counter-protesters. The remaining cases were not classified. It was reported that some of the right-wing demonstrators violated Germany’s ban on face coverings and displayed unconstitutional symbols. According to taz, state security was also investigating an SS song that was played at the gathering.
An estimated 1,600 officers were deployed to prevent rioting, including police from Bavaria and Bremen. The atmosphere was reportedly heated at times, with several clashes between protesters and police, resulting in the use of pepper spray and temporary arrests.
This was the third far-right march of its kind in Berlin since December, with participation increasing each time. The previous two protests also saw counter-demonstrations and clashes with police.
