Police Detain 15 Individuals at Easter March in Berlin-Kreuzberg for Disturbances and Prohibited Symbols

During the Easter march held in Berlin-Kreuzberg, approximately 1,800 participants gathered on Saturday, leading to significant police intervention, resulting in the detention of 15 individuals. The event commenced around 1:15 PM at Mariannenplatz and was marked by various incidents requiring police action.

Reports indicate that attendees from a pro-Palestinian group confronted a woman expressing dissenting opinions, subjecting her to harassment and insults. Authorities intervened promptly to ensure her safety. The woman has been identified as Karoline Preisler, a politician and activist affiliated with the Free Democratic Party, who has previously faced aggression from pro-Palestinian demonstrators. In a post on social media, she recounted the threatening circumstances she experienced during the march.

Additionally, a media representative was reportedly pressured by demonstrators around 3:05 PM, prompting police protection to be implemented. The arrests included ten men and five women, with charges related to insults, coercion, and the display of unconstitutional symbols. The symbols in question included red Hamas triangles and the Hirak fist, a sign associated with the banned pro-Palestinian network, Samidoun, which has been criticized for promoting antisemitic propaganda under the guise of a solidarity organization for prisoners.

Several of those arrested had prior involvement in other pro-Palestinian demonstrations where they faced accusations of violent conduct, including public disorder and aggravated assault. Despite the tensions surrounding the main event, smaller gatherings nearby were mostly peaceful or limited due to imposed regulations. The primary demonstration concluded at approximately 4:25 PM.