Several fled the spot in panic.

Turbans tossed, gunfire, kirpans drawn: 11 injured in violent clash at Germany gurdwara

Around 11 people were initially reported injured, though later updates suggest only a few sustained minor wounds. No fatalities occurred.

The clash is believed to be linked to a long-standing internal dispute within the gurdwara community, mainly over management control, finances, and influence, including issues related to donation funds (golak).

Police launched a major operation involving about 100 officers and special forces. No gunman was found, and the firearm may have been a blank weapon. At least one suspect has been detained, and investigations are ongoing.

Here's a clear, point-wise explanation of the gurdwara clash in Germany

Location:

The incident took place on April 19 at a gurdwara in Moers, in western Germany.

Clash:

More than 40 people were reportedly involved in the confrontation, making it a large and serious outbreak of violence inside a religious place.

Incident:

What began as a confrontation quickly escalated into a violent brawl. The situation intensified rapidly, causing panic among worshippers present at the gurdwara.

Weapons reportedly used:

According to preliminary reports and eyewitnesses, some individuals carried and used:

Pepper spray

Knives

Kirpans

A possible firearm (later suspected to be a blank-firing weapon)

Injuries reported:

Initially, about 11 people were said to be injured. However, later reports suggest that only 3-4 individuals had confirmed minor injuries such as cuts and head wounds. No fatalities were reported.

Panic among devotees:

As violence broke out, many people inside the gurdwara fled in fear. Some eyewitnesses described people running out barefoot, highlighting the chaos and urgency of the situation.

Eyewitness accounts:

Witnesses claimed the attack may have been pre-planned. One account stated that pepper spray was used first, followed by physical assault and a gunshot-like sound.

Underlying cause (suspected):

The clash is believed to stem from a long-standing internal dispute within the gurdwara community. The conflict reportedly involved:

Control over the gurdwara management committee

Financial disagreements

Influence and authority within the institution

Dispute over donations:

Some reports suggest the disagreement was linked to control over the "golak" (donation box), which holds community contributions and funds.

Conflict between groups:

Eyewitnesses indicated tensions between former committee members and current management. It is alleged that a previous group attempted to forcibly regain control after losing internal elections.

Police response:

German authorities launched a major operation following reports of violence and possible gunfire:

Around 100 police officers were deployed

A Special Task Force (SEK) from Düsseldorf was involved

A helicopter was used for aerial support

Security measures:

The gurdwara was cordoned off due to fears that an armed suspect might still be inside. Armed officers later entered and searched the premises.

Findings at the scene:

No active gunman was found. However, cartridge cases were recovered, suggesting a firearm had been discharged-possibly a blank weapon.

Detention and investigation:

At least one suspect has been detained. Police are working to identify all those involved and determine who initiated the violence.

Current status:

The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are examining both the violent incident and the deeper governance and financial disputes within the gurdwara community.