Germany gurdwara clash: 11 hurt after violent fight at Moers Sikh Temple, police launch probe
Germany gurdwara violence: A violent clash broke out at a gurdwara in Germany on Sunday, leaving several people injured and triggering a massive police response. The incident took place at Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Moers, a city in North Rhine-Westphalia.
According to reports, over 40 persons were involved in the fight. Some of them were carrying pepper spray, knives, kirpans and even a suspected firearm. The situation quickly went out of control, creating panic among devotees present at the gurdwara.
Eyewitnesses said the trouble began shortly before a prayer service. One group allegedly started the attack using pepper spray to confuse others. Soon after, violence escalated, with people using sharp weapons. Some witnesses also claimed that a gun was fired during the clash.
A 56-year-old eyewitness told a German newspaper that the attack did not appear sudden. He said the group seemed prepared, as they used pepper spray first and then weapons. He also claimed to have seen a pistol being used during the incident.
The clash is believed to be linked to an ongoing dispute within the gurdwara management. Sources said there has been tension between former and current committee members for some time. The disagreement is reportedly over control of the gurdwara and financial matters, including donations made by the community.
Some people at the scene also claimed that the dispute was related to the gurdwara’s golak, where offerings are collected. It is being said that former members were trying to take back control after losing their positions.
As the violence spread, many people inside the gurdwara ran out in fear. Some even fled barefoot to save themselves. The sudden chaos shocked those present.
At least 11 persons were injured, most of them suffering head injuries. However, some reports suggest that only a few had minor wounds. Emergency services reached the spot quickly, and paramedics treated the injured on site.
The police launched a large operation to control the situation. Around 100 officers, including special units, surrounded the gurdwara. A helicopter was also used to monitor the area from above. Officers later entered the building, suspecting an armed person inside, but no gunman was found. One suspect has been detained so far.
The police have started an investigation to find out what exactly led to the clash. Initial findings suggest that the firearm used may not have been a real one, as only cartridge cases were recovered.
- With inputs from agencies
