Farmers clash with security forces in Romania: 24 injured
Farmers and livestock breeders in Romania clashed with security forces during a protest in the capital, Bucharest. 24 people were injured and 26 were detained in the ensuing conflict.
12punto
Thousands of farmers and livestock breeders from across Romania held a protest at Victoriei Square in the capital, Bucharest, due to the suspension of live small ruminant exports following animal diseases, dissatisfaction with compensation payments after culling policies, and a lack of trust in the veterinary institution.
During the protest, demonstrators called on the government to lift the bans on live animal exports. The demonstration also protested the insufficiency of state support, rising taxes, and the financial burdens placed on the agricultural sector.
The demonstrators dispersed into groups at different points in the square to block vehicle traffic. Security forces used tear gas to intervene against the protesters. A clash broke out between security forces and demonstrators after some protesters threw bottles and similar objects at security forces and a group attempted to break through the security cordon.
As a result of the incidents, 24 people were injured, and 4 of the injured were taken to the hospital for treatment. The Bucharest Gendarmerie announced that 26 people were detained due to the events.
"Acts of aggression and vandalism must be severely punished"
Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan issued a statement regarding the demonstration, saying, "I firmly condemn any attempt to turn a legitimate protest into street clashes. Acts of aggression and vandalism must be severely punished. Incitement to violence and attempts by irresponsible politicians to escalate social tension are unacceptable."
George Simion, leader of the opposition far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), accused the gendarmerie of using disproportionate force and argued that the events were an indication that people's patience with the government is beginning to run out.