Björn Höcke event in Jena disrupted by power outage and protests

A citizen dialogue event featuring Thuringia AfD leader Björn Höcke in Jena was disrupted by a total power failure that lasted approximately three and a half hours. Due to the lack of emergency power in the venue, Höcke was forced to speak in dim lighting without a microphone.

The event was met with significant protests, with organizers estimating 4,000 participants while police reported approximately 3,000 people on the streets. During the demonstrations, police used pepper spray to resolve several road blockades. Authorities reported that four police officers were injured during the protests, though there is currently no information regarding injuries among demonstrators.

Police are investigating seven criminal offenses, including the sabotage of the power distribution at the venue. Investigators are currently reviewing photo and video material to identify further potential crimes and to determine the exact cause of the blackout.