The German government has expressed strong disapproval over violent incidents targeting police and firefighters during New Year's Eve celebrations. Traditional fireworks displays in public spaces were overshadowed when fireworks became tools of aggression against emergency personnel. In Berlin, the chaos injured 30 police officers and one firefighter, resulting in 400 arrests, as per city officials. Nationwide, five fatalities and hundreds of injuries were attributed to accidental firework discharges, reported the German news agency dpa.
Hundreds of police officers were dispatched to Berlin from across Germany to thwart further disturbances. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser advocated for a robust police presence and swift action against offenders, stating, "The deployment of strong police forces... and an early and consistent crackdown are the right means against perpetrators of violence." She emphasized that the "many arrests in Berlin alone and the renewed attacks on police officers also show that this crackdown was absolutely necessary."
Minister Faeser extended wishes for a quick recovery to those injured and committed to ensuring that all individuals linked to the disturbances face severe legal consequences. She affirmed that all aggressors would be "prosecuted and punished with the utmost severity," underscoring the government's resolve to maintain order and protect its citizens and emergency responders. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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