Protests are continuing across Germany against rising living costs, inadequate facilities in educational institutions and proposed rules making military service compulsory. The demonstrations are being organised by a campaign group called “Gen Z Revolt.” Protesters are demanding greater economic security for citizens and better public services.
Tensions escalated when nearly 10,000 demonstrators took to the streets of 34 major cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich. Several security personnel were seriously injured after rioters hurled petrol bombs at those trying to hold them back.
In Frankfurt, masked individuals exploited the unrest to break into several shops and loot goods, including luxury items. Police said protesters smashed shop windows and vehicle windscreens and set barricades on fire, creating a violent atmosphere. Bottles of liquor and petrol bombs were also thrown at officers, they added.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior said anti-national elements were infiltrating the crowds in an attempt to cause destruction. It warned young people to end the protests, cautioning that the situation could otherwise become far more serious.
The ministry also urged the public to identify those involved in looting and attacks and to pass the information on to the police.