German rioters loot shops as ‘Gen Z’ protests turn ugly

Several German police officers were injured during clashes at a demonstration in Frankfurt on Saturday evening, prompting authorities to break up the protest after attacks with firecrackers and stones. Hesse state Interior Minister Roman Poseck said one officer may have sustained more serious injuries, although the extent of the injuries was still being assessed. Police declared the demonstration organized by the "Gen Z regelt" (Gen Z Takes Charge) initiative over after officers were targeted.In Frankfurt, at least two stores were looted and several others damaged as the demonstrations turned violent, a witness reported. Police struggled to contain the unrest in the city centre.In Hamburg, some barricades were set on fire. German authorities said most demonstrations had remained peaceful but warned that extremist groups could try to exploit the gatherings.
The demonstrations were held in 34 cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich. The protests were part of a wider wave of youth-led demonstrations across Europe this year, with young people demanding greater economic security and better public services.
The campaign has brought together young people opposed to compulsory military service and calling for more investment in education, healthcare and other public services. Many say they are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living in Europe's largest economy. "We are here today to fight for peace and freedom, rather than for war and coercion," Gen Z regelt spokesperson Lina Friedrich said at a rally in Berlin.