A protester was fatally shot during unrest in Wismar, Linden, following heightened tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement officers. The incident occurred as protests erupted over the recent police-involved shooting of Ronaldo Peters.
According to police reports, ranks on the ground came under attack as they attempted to disperse crowds who were burning tyres and damaging government infrastructure. During efforts to restore order, police officers discharged live rounds into the crowd. One of those rounds struck and killed a protester.
The protest had escalated into violence, with demonstrators reportedly hurling missiles at police officers. Several gazetted officers sustained injuries during the confrontation. Police vehicles were also vandalised and damaged in the ensuing chaos.
In response to the fatality, the officers involved have been placed under close arrest, and the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has launched a formal investigation into the incident.
Police in a statement said that members of the Regional Security System (RSS) will lead an independent investigation into the matter.
Home Affairs Minister Robson Benn has called for calm in the community and reaffirming the government’s commitment to due process and the rule of law as investigations proceed.
