Police act against masks and fireworks as German youth protests start

German police moved in to halt a protest in the south-western city of Stuttgart on Saturday to act against participants covering their faces and setting off fireworks.

"The march can only continue if everyone removes their face coverings," police said on their WhatsApp channel.

"Even before the march began, smoke bombs were set off, and firecrackers could also be heard. That is not acceptable," a police spokeswoman said in a short video.

"We appeal to you: Make your voices heard, but remain peaceful," she added.

Several people had also left the designated route. The march was stopped, and participants were instructed to stick to the agreed route.

The march was part of planned protests called in more than 30 German cities on Saturday. In many locations, police reported that demonstrations were proceeding without incident as the protests began.

Participants are campaigning, among other things, for an affordable cost of living and increased funding for schools, addiction support services and psychotherapy. They are also firmly opposed to compulsory military service.

Following outbreaks of violence at protests in neighbouring European countries, shopkeepers and politicians are concerned that similar disturbances could occur in Germany.

Both the initiative "Gen Z regelt" (Gen Z Takes Charge), which is behind the protests, and the State Student Council have called for the demonstrations to remain peaceful.