Frankfurt, Oct 31. (dpa/GNA) – German police sealed off a major shopping street in central Frankfurt on Saturday night after rioters smashed shop windows, looted stores and attacked officers following a demonstration.
The Zeil, one of Germany’s busiest shopping streets, was closed to new arrivals, with police urging bystanders to leave the area.
“Anyone not involved who is still on the Zeil can leave. Access to the Zeil is no longer possible,” police said.
Chaotic scenes unfolded along the high street, where dpa journalists saw people breaking into shops and stealing trainers and other goods.
A specialist firearms shop was also attacked, prompting several arrests, a police spokesman said. Officers quickly reached the scene and secured two weapons, although police did not specify what kind.
Police also reported attacks on officers, including with incendiary devices.
The violence erupted after police broke up a demonstration organised by youth-led initiatives following repeated attacks on officers.
A large contingent of officers was deployed around the Zeil, with police advising people to avoid or leave central Frankfurt.
GNA