Berlin police actions under scrutiny by Ireland due to expressed worries over perceived violence
In a shocking turn of events, 25-year-old Kitty O'Brien, a queer activist from Dublin, was left hospitalized with a broken arm and facial trauma after being punched twice by a Berlin police officer during a pro-Palestine demonstration in Berlin on the evening of August 29, 2025.
The incident, which has drawn international attention and concern from the Irish government, took place during an unregistered "civil disobedience demonstration" in Berlin. Kitty O'Brien, who is a member of the group Irish Bloc Berlin, was among the protesters accused of agitation and illegal behavior.
Berlin police have referred the incident to oversight authorities to determine whether police acted disproportionately or criminally. The authorities have initiated 96 criminal investigations as a result of the event.
Berlin police claimed that they were compelled to use force due to Kitty O'Brien's refusal to comply with orders and her verbal and physical offenses towards police officers. According to reports, Kitty O'Brien allegedly called police officers "genocide supporters" and "f*cking Nazis."
Arrests were made after numerous direct warnings were given that protesters end their event and disperse. Kitty O'Brien's aunt, a member of Dublin City Council, was among those protesting at the German Embassy in Dublin, sparking protests in response to Kitty O'Brien's treatment by police.
Ireland's ambassador to Germany, Maeve Collins, and senior officials from Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs have contacted German authorities to convey their concern over Kitty O'Brien's treatment. Prime Minister Micheal Martin has called the incident "unacceptable" and voiced "deep concern."
Kitty O'Brien underwent surgery for a badly broken right arm, allegedly due to police force. Approximately 94 people were detained during the demonstration, with all being released after their identities were established.
The incident in Berlin is not the first time Berlin police have come under criticism for their handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The event has sparked anger and concern, with a few dozen individuals in Dublin voicing their disapproval over Kitty O'Brien's treatment.
As Kitty O'Brien remains hospitalized for several days, the investigation into the incident continues, with hopes that justice will be served and similar incidents can be prevented in the future.
