May Day: Berlin police detains over 70 during mass rallies

Berlin police detained 73 individuals and reported 12 officers injured during mass May Day demonstrations across the city. 

According to Berlin's Senator for Interior Affairs, Iris Spranger, approximately 5,800 police officers were deployed to manage the day's events, including 2,200 reinforcements from other federal states and the federal police, Caliber.Az reports per German media.

Spranger suggested a similar deployment level may be necessary for future May Day operations, citing increased security challenges.

The German capital hosted 62 separate demonstrations and festive gatherings throughout the day, drawing more than 61,000 participants. While many events remained peaceful, pockets of unrest led to arrests and minor clashes with law enforcement.

“May Day in Berlin is changing. It has now become a citywide event with gatherings, celebrations, and peaceful communication. At the same time, we see that the security situation has become more difficult,” Spranger said in a statement. 

She emphasised the need for continued vigilance, noting that police are now tasked not only with maintaining order but also protecting crowds from emerging threats such as drones and the risk of mass disturbances.

By Sabina Mammadli