Two German police officers were seriously injured as a result of anti-AfD protests

Two police officers suffered serious head injuries as they escorted the politician through crowds of activists protesting against a congress of the far-right Alternative for Germany in the western city of Essen.

Unknown assailants kicked the officers in the head and forced them to the ground, a police statement said. They were taken to hospital. Seven other officers suffered less serious injuries. The assailants managed to escape into the crowd.

There were clashes between activists and police throughout the day.

Home Affairs Minister Nancy Faeser condemned the attacks. “We need strong democratic forces and peaceful protest against right-wing extremism and racism. Violence cannot be justified,” she wrote on X.

She expressed gratitude and respect for the police, wishing the injured officers a speedy recovery.