Investigation Launched After Irish Protester Punched by Police

An investigation has been initiated by the German Police following an incident in which a police officer punched an Irish protester during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Berlin. The protest, held on March 14, 2024, included a significant confrontation between demonstrators and law enforcement. Disturbing video footage shows Kitty O’Brien, a 25-year-old from Dublin, being struck twice in the face by a police officer, resulting in visible injuries.

The video, which has circulated widely online, captures Kitty bleeding from the nose after the assault. In the footage, she is seen expressing her distress to other officers, saying, “This is on you, there’s blood on your hands.” In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the Berlin Police confirmed that the police offences watchdog has been instructed to review the situation to determine if the police response was appropriate or if any criminal actions occurred.

Political Reaction and Protests

The incident has ignited protests in both Dublin and Derry, with demands for accountability. Taoiseach Michael Martin expressed his concern regarding the assault, labeling it “unacceptable” during a statement in County Kerry. Following the incident, a spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs indicated that they are aware of the situation and are prepared to provide consular assistance to Kitty upon request.

Kitty was part of the group Irish Bloc Berlin, which described the event as a “civil disobedience demonstration.” Following the altercation, she reportedly sustained a serious arm injury. The group stated that her right arm was “pulled and then twisted with great force, snapping the bone” while she was being removed from the protest. After the incident, Kitty received medical treatment at Berlin’s Charité hospital.

Details of the Protest and Police Response

Witnesses to the protest have described the atmosphere as chaotic and highly charged. Roisín Clarke, a fellow member of Irish Bloc Berlin, recounted how the police conducted a significant operation prior to the demonstration. “It had been advertised online, so the police knew about it,” she noted, explaining that officers were present in large numbers around the city, checking the attire of those arriving at train stations.

Clarke detailed how the protesters were positioned on either side of a main street, leading to escalating tensions as pro-Palestinian chants began. She highlighted that police directives to disperse were met with resistance, as demonstrators found themselves trapped by police vehicles blocking their escape.

In a statement regarding the events of March 14, the Berlin Police announced that “criminal, forbidden slogans were chanted,” which prompted the arrest of approximately 80 individuals. Overall, 94 people faced restrictions, with 96 criminal investigations opened, although all were later released after their identities were verified.

As investigations continue, the incident raises questions about police conduct during public demonstrations and the treatment of protesters. The outcome of the review by the police watchdog will likely impact discussions surrounding civil rights and law enforcement practices in Germany.