Exclusive: Tension builds between activists and police in Copenhagen

By Daniel Nielsen
0 CommentsPrint E-mail China.org.cn, December 11, 2009
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Police have raided activist headquarters in the eastern part of Copenhagen in the middle of the night, confiscating tools and materials to be used in demonstrations.

The activists said the tools had been used to construct sleeping quarters during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP15) but the police said the tools were the kind often used in civil disobedience.

Climate Justice Action spokesperson Tannie Nyboe said the raid was 'completely disproportionate' with the police intimidating people who had been sleeping peacefully.

So far, Copenhagen has been relatively peaceful with no major protests. That's due to change with 5000 demonstrators taking to the streets today (December 11) to take part in the 'Don't buy the lies' protest.

The demonstration has been timed to coincide with the so-called Copenhagen Business Day, when leaders from the organisation World Business for Sustainable Development meet to discuss climate change and possible solutions.

The organisers of 'Don't buy the lies' accuse the business leaders of destroying the climate and the planet.

Copenhagen Police press officer Orla Borg was concerned that the demonstrators planned to enter shops and offices in the city but confident the police could handle it.

Another protest is planned to happen on Saturday with more taking place during the final week of the conference.

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