Violent protests in Europe have also spread to Switzerland

Unauthorized and violent protests took place on Saturday night into Sunday in Zurich and Basel after hundreds of young people mobilized on social media under the slogan “We’ve had enough – in Switzerland too.” The demonstrations were organized in the context of Halloween and presented as an act of solidarity with protests held in other European countries.

In Zurich, several hundred people in costume gathered around 10:30 p.m. on Langstrasse and headed toward Helvetiaplatz. In the square, some demonstrators set fire to bus stops and a barricade built from garbage bins, bicycles and other objects. Garbage containers and a car were set on fire, while several shop windows were damaged.

Police intervened with water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets after coming under attack with fireworks, bottles and stones. A patrol called to a medical emergency was attacked and withdrew, unable to immediately assist a teenager who had suffered a serious leg injury.

In Basel, approximately 150 people took part in a march that crossed the Mittlere Rheinbrücke bridge. In the St. Johann district, demonstrators set fire to barricades, prompting police intervention. Swiss authorities are investigating the incidents.