Germany Faces Global Shame Over Handling of Protester Treatment, According to Irish Activist Kitty O'Brien

In a shocking turn of events, Kitty O'Brien, an Irish protester, was assaulted by Berlin police during a pro-Palestine demonstration. O'Brien, who was previously known to the police, was left with severe injuries, including a broken nose, humerus bone, and potential radial nerve damage.

The incident occurred on a street where O'Brien estimates there were approximately 20 to 25 protesters, compared to at least twice that number of police officers. According to O'Brien, the police officer twisted their arm behind their back and snapped it during the incident. They also describe the police officer making direct shots with their fist to O'Brien's face twice during the protest.

Following the incident, O'Brien underwent surgery and now has 11 screws holding their arm together. They were discharged from the hospital on Thursday after a week of treatment for their injuries.

A criminal investigation has been initiated regarding the police officer involved in the assault. The investigation will focus on the proportionality of force used against O'Brien during the protest. However, the search results do not provide the name of the police officer who injured O'Brien and is currently under investigation for suspected bodily harm and abuse of office.

In addition to the investigation against the police officer, the Berlin Police have also initiated an investigation against O'Brien on suspicion of assaulting and insulting law-enforcement officers. O'Brien's friends have also sustained injuries such as broken noses, fractured wrists, and a broken spine during protests in Germany.

O'Brien, who was protesting against the deliberate killing of journalists in Palestine, calls for Germany to be shamed internationally for its treatment of protesters. They plan to return to the streets to protest and confront the police officers involved in the assault.

O'Brien states that they do not expect the investigation to be impartial. Since October 2023, 274 journalists have been murdered by Israel, according to O'Brien. This tragic statistic further fuels O'Brien's determination to continue protesting for justice and peace.