A protest in opposition to coronavirus measures in Belgium on Sunday led to scuffles as protesters clashed with police.
The largely peaceable protest in Brussels noticed 1000’s demonstrating in opposition to the reimposed Covid-19 restrictions in response to a surge in circumstances associated to the omicron variant.
Greater than 3,500 folks marched within the capital metropolis, some carrying indicators and banners that learn “free zone,” “I’ve had my truthful dose” and “sufficient is sufficient”. Among the many protesters have been some Belgian healthcare staff, who’ve been given a three-month window during which to get vaccinated in opposition to the virus from 1 January or danger dropping their jobs.
It’s the third demonstration in opposition to the newest restrictions in addition to the Authorities’s sturdy recommendation to get vaccinated. This week, there was a powerful police presence as earlier protests had descended into violence.
Video footage confirmed scuffles breaking out on the finish of the day when a small variety of protesters threw objects at police. It additionally confirmed a person being arrested.
Nonetheless, this protest was largely tame in comparison with earlier demonstrations and solely 13 arrests have been made for “rebel and possession of prohibited articles,” in accordance with police spokesperson Ilse Van de Keere.
Final month, a protest ended with police utilizing tear gasoline and water cannons on demonstrators.
Some law enforcement officials sustained accidents as a number of hundred folks have been seen throwing smoke bombs, fireworks and rocks. Others have been pictured smashing automobiles and setting garbage bins on fireplace. Protesters chanted “freedom” as they confronted off with riot police.
A variety of different related protests befell throughout Europe Saturday, together with in London and Paris as restrictions are being reimposed to struggle the surge of the brand new variant.
Extra reporting by AP