German police shot and seriously injured an axeman near a Euros fan zone in Hamburg, where thousands of Dutch football supporters were gathering ahead of a Netherlands vs. Poland match on Sunday.
The incident occurred close to the Reeperbahn, a major street in Hamburg, as around 40,000 Netherlands supporters were participating in a peaceful march. According to German tabloid Bild, the man wielding a gold-coloured axe began attacking a police officer, prompting immediate intervention from riot police.
Four loud bangs were heard in the area as officers attempted to disarm the attacker using pepper spray. When the situation escalated, an officer fired a warning shot, followed by shots that brought the axeman to the ground.
A major police operation is now underway in central Hamburg to secure the area and ensure public safety. The suspect, who was seriously injured, is receiving medical attention. The police have not yet released further details on his identity or motives.
The incident has caused significant disruption near the fan zone, a designated area for supporters of the Dutch football team who are in the city for the Euros 2024 match against Poland.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the large crowd of Dutch fans initially unaware of the unfolding danger. “It was a peaceful march, and then suddenly everything changed. There was panic when the shots were fired,” said one supporter.
The authorities swiftly sealed off the area to prevent any further incidents and to conduct a thorough investigation. “We have contained the situation and are ensuring that the area is safe for the public,” a police spokesperson said.
This incident comes amid heightened security measures for the Euros 2024 tournament, where large gatherings of fans are commonplace. The police have assured that additional measures will be taken to maintain safety and prevent similar occurrences.
The Netherlands vs. Poland match is still scheduled to proceed, with fans being advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from law enforcement.
