From BZ/dpa
Before the May Day demonstrations in Berlin, Governing Mayor Kai Wegner warned the participants against violence.
“I wish that we all experience a peaceful May 1st,” said the CDU politician to rbb on Saturday evening. The holiday is about good work and a better work-life balance, not about outbreaks of violence.
The Berlin police are well prepared for such situations. “The police here not only have my respect, but my full support,” said Wegner. “And I wish that every policeman, every firefighter, every firefighter comes home safe and above all healthy after May 1st.”
He will visit the fire and police headquarters on May 1 with Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD).
Faeser urges peaceful demos
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser also warned against peaceful forms of protest with a view to May 1st. “May 1st stands for social justice and social cohesion,” said the SPD politician on Sunday of the DPA. “I appeal to all groups to demonstrate peacefully.”
Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) Photo: dpa
Violence is never a means of democratic debate, emphasized the minister. “The police will very clearly counter riots, riots and violence by left-wing extremists, but sometimes also by right-wing extremists and chaotic people.” Anyone who attacks police and rescue workers must expect severe consequences. The federal police will support the state police “with strong forces”.
According to their own statements, the police will be deployed around the demonstrations with 6,300 officers. The main focus is usually on the so-called Revolutionary May Day Demonstration, which this year is leading from Neukölln to Kreuzberg. Up to 15,000 people are expected.