Thousands of people marched against COVID-19 restrictions

BRUSSELS: Thousands of people recently marched through central Brussels to decry the Belgian government's COVID-19 constraints, which were introduced in response to the recent upsurge in COVID-19 infections.

According to the news source, approximately 35,000 people at the demonstration were already departed before the protest became chaotic. Hundreds of protesters threw stones at policemen, destroyed automobiles, and set rubbish bins on fire. So in response, the police of Belgium employed tear gas and water cannons to try to restore normalcy.

Ilse Vande Keere, the spokesperson of police, revealed that the skirmishes culminated in the injuries of three police officers and one protester. In addition, 42 protestors were apprehended, and two were arrested and charged on the offences of the violent rampage that accompanied the demonstration.

It was further unearthed that the marchers were protesting the government's strong urging to be vaccinated as well as measures to make COVID-19 vaccinations compulsory.

Protesters lined up behind a large banner reading "Together for Freedom". Moreover, they proceeded to the headquarters of the European Union, shouting "Freedom! Freedom! Freedom!" and singing the anti-fascist hymn "Bella Ciao." The placards in the throng ranged from far-right emblems to LGBT community rainbow flags.