Two Arrested Following Clashes, Arson, and Vandalism During Protests in Switzerland

Protests in the Swiss cities of Zurich and Basel—inspired by youth-led movements in France—have turned violent. The demonstrations involved acts of arson, vandalism, and clashes with the police. Authorities deployed water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to bring the situation under control. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the events.

On Sunday (November 1), hundreds of people gathered in the Langstrasse area of ​​Zurich, many wearing Halloween masks. As the protesters moved toward Helvetiaplatz, near the main railway station, they set off fireworks and flares.

Tensions escalated in the Helvetiaplatz area, where a bus stop was damaged. Barricades constructed from trash bins and bicycles were set on fire. Subsequently, vehicles and waste containers were set ablaze, and shop windows were smashed in several locations.

According to the police, some protesters threw stones, bottles, and fireworks at them. To regain control, police used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets. Tensions persisted in various parts of the city until 1:30 a.m.

Amid the unrest, a police patrol vehicle—en route to an emergency medical call—came under attack. Reports indicate that the officers were forced to retreat before they could reach a teenager who had sustained a serious leg injury.

Meanwhile, protests also spread to the city of Basel. Local police reported that around 150 people gathered in the city center at approximately 9:00 p.m. The group moved through the Mittlere Rheinbrücke and Marktplatz areas toward St. Johann. Police intervened after several barricades were set on fire in that area.

The influence of youth-led movements from France was evident in the protesters' messaging. On social media, calls to join the demonstrations were circulated using slogans such as "Taking Control: Gen Z." Following clashes in Zurich and Basel, police brought the situation under control and arrested two individuals in connection with unauthorized protests.