After the occupation of the Audimax by pro-Palestinian activists, the University of Leipzig intends to demand compensation from those involved who have committed criminal offenses. This was announced by a university spokesperson on Wednesday in response to an inquiry. "Yesterday we had to deal with a group that was clearly intent on escalation." It was initially unclear whether these were students from Leipzig University. In addition, several pieces of graffiti were found around the university, which led to charges of damage to property. According to the police, more than 30 criminal proceedings were initiated in total.
Around 50 to 60 pro-Palestinian activists occupied the university's Audimax and inner courtyard on Tuesday afternoon. The police cleared the lecture hall that evening. According to the university, the evacuation was unavoidable as there was an imminent danger to the safety of all students and lecturers. Teaching in the Audimax is to be suspended for the rest of the week.
According to the police, the Audimax was occupied by 13 people aged between 19 and 34 when the emergency services arrived. The access doors had been locked from the inside with cable ties. In addition, more than 30 people were blocking the doors from the outside. Criminal charges were filed against the 13 people in the Audimax. The police are investigating on suspicion of trespassing. More than twelve people are said to have resisted the actions of the police - criminal proceedings have also been initiated against them. One police officer was reportedly slightly injured by kicks.
In consultation with the Leipzig public prosecutor's office, all the people in the Audimax were taken to the police station to have their personal details taken - they were then released.
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