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Smoke Rises During Clashes at Independence March in Warsaw, Poland

Several dozen people were detained after police clashed with marchers during Warsaw’s annual far-right march to mark Poland’s Independence Day, which took place this year in defiance of coronavirus restrictions, local media reported.

Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski had banned the march and a court upheld the move, citing coronavirus restrictions that prevented gatherings of more than five people, according to local news reports.

Organizers responded by asking people to participate in cars and other vehicles to circumvent the restrictions, but the rally spilled onto the streets.

Warsaw police said several officers were injured during clashes with protesters, which began after participants ignored police warnings to disperse.

A fight broke out between marchers and police, leading to firecrackers, bottles and stones being thrown at officers, who responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, according to local news reports. Local reporters said protesters were also injured.

This footage shows a heavy police presence during the march in Warsaw. Credit: @OrsonDzi via Storyful