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11 people injured in brawl at Sikh temple in western Germany

20 April 2026 02:19 (UTC +04:00)

At least 11 people were injured in a brawl at a Sikh temple in Moers, North Rhine-Westphalia, western Germany, APA reports citing newspaper Bild.

According to her, police are conducting a large-scale operation near the temple. The area has been completely cordoned off. According to preliminary reports, a brawl involving more than 40 people occurred earlier. Eyewitnesses report that bladed weapons and firearms were used during the conflict.

It was reported that special forces were preparing to storm the church. It was suspected that an armed man might be hiding inside. According to the publication, numerous vehicles were deployed to the area, armed police officers were on the scene, and a police helicopter was circling above.

Police separated the warring groups. Special forces from Düsseldorf arrived to assist. Law enforcement later reported that no armed individuals were found in the building. According to the newspaper, 11 people were injured in the clash, mostly with head injuries.

According to preliminary reports, the victims are not in life-threatening danger; paramedics provided medical assistance at the scene. At least one suspect has been detained. Criminal police are working to determine the instigator of the attack. Forensic experts are currently collecting evidence at the scene. No firearms have yet been found. Judging by the shell casings recovered, a flare gun or gas pistol may have been used.

The exact cause of the brawl has not yet been determined. According to preliminary investigation results, it may have been sparked by a conflict within the congregation over the appointment of a new board. It may also have involved church funds, which are being claimed by different groups. "It was clearly planned. Right before the service began, the attackers suddenly pulled out pepper spray and began spraying them at their assailants, then one of them fired a pistol. I also saw knives," one congregation member told Bild.