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Monday 25, September

Police crack down on Letzte Generation’s Marathon protests

Due to a heavy police presence, Letzte Generation activists made minimal disruptions to the Berlin Marathon on Sunday.

Photo: IMAGO / Funke Foto Services

Monday 25, September

Police crack down on Letzte Generation’s Marathon protests

According to police, Sunday’s marathon went off more or less without a hitch, as activists from the climate protection group Letzte Generation failed to significantly disrupt the Berlin Marathon, which saw a record of almost 48,000 runners take part.

One incident did threaten to derail the day’s events, however. Shortly before the start of the race, eight protesters carrying Letzte Generation banners jumped over barricades and onto the race route, where they doused the road in orange paint. Police swiftly intervened. Climate activists also attempted minor interventions at various other points along the route, and a total of 31 individuals were arrested onsite. Some of the arrested protesters were released by police after their personal details were recorded, but right now it’s unclear how many activists have been taken into custody.

As Exberliner reported Friday, a ban was placed on any unregistered demonstrations taking place on the day of the marathon. “Violations of this order will be punished and will result in a large fine”, a police spokesperson stated. But as of yet, it’s unclear how many protesters have been issued with fines. Shortly after the initial disruption took place, Letzte Generation posted a video on X apologising for obstructing Sunday’s race, but reiterating their central goal, writing: “We are doing this because we are in dire straits – In existential danger!”.