Two police officers suffered serious head injuries as they escorted a politician through a crowd of activists protesting a congress held by the far-right Alternative for Germany in the western city of Essen.
Unknown assailants kicked the officers in the head after forcing them to the ground, a police statement said. They were taken to hospital. Seven other officers were less seriously injured. The attackers were able to escape into the crowd.
Activists and police clashed throughout the day.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser condemned the attacks. “We need strong democratic forces and peaceful protest against the far right and racism. Violence cannot be justified,” she posted on X.
She expressed her gratitude and respect to the police and wished the injured officers a speedy recovery.
