Gendarmerie Deploys Tear Gas Against Sheep Breeders in Bucharest Protest
During a protest in Piața Victoriei, gendarmerie forces used tear-gas canisters on demonstrators, many of whom are sheep breeders demanding relief from export limits and disease-control measures.
A large assembly of roughly 3,000 farmers converged on Piața Victoriei, voicing grievances over export bans, the management of animal disease outbreaks and compensation for animals sacrificed. The crowd, largely composed of sheep breeders, faced a line of gendarmerie officers equipped with helmets and shields who moved forward, tightening the space and causing a crush. In response, the police discharged tear-gas canisters into the front of the crowd, directly affecting the demonstrators.
Prior to the rally, law-enforcement announced special security measures and warned that firearms, blunt instruments, or other potentially violent items would not be allowed. Despite the use of force, the protesters declared they would not leave and were prepared to stay in Bucharest through the night and possibly for several days.
Why it matters
The incident shows rising tension between Romanian authorities and agricultural workers over policy and enforcement measures.
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