Polish far-right supporters on Wednesday clashed with riot police near Warsaw's main stadium, which is being used as a temporary hospital for Covid-19 victims.

Protesters threw stones and firecrackers during the Independence Day march in Warsaw. Many waved Polish flags and chanted: 'God, honour and homeland!'
Protesters threw stones and firecrackers during the Independence Day march in Warsaw. Many waved Polish flags and chanted: 'God, honour and homeland!' AFP / Wojtek RADWANSKI

The clashes broke out after thousands joined a march in cars, motorbikes and on foot, ignoring police warnings to disperse in order to limit infection risks.

IMAGESThousands of Polish far-right supporters march and drive through the centre of Warsaw to mark the country's Independence Day.
IMAGESThousands of Polish far-right supporters march and drive through the centre of Warsaw to mark the country's Independence Day. AFPTV / Damien SIMONART

"Several officers were injured" after being attacked by "groups of hooligans" the police said on Twitter.

"Officers had to act decisively in order to clear a passage for ambulances and vehicles carrying respirators that were being blocked by hooligans," they said.

Clashes erupted after thousands joined the march in cars, motorbikes and on foot, ignoring police warnings to disperse in order to limit infection risks
Clashes erupted after thousands joined the march in cars, motorbikes and on foot, ignoring police warnings to disperse in order to limit infection risks AFP / Wojtek RADWANSKI

Police fired rubber bullets after protesters threw stones and firecrackers during the Independence Day march.

Participants, many of whom did not wear masks, waved Polish flags and chanted: "God, honour and homeland!"

The city's liberal mayor Rafal Trzaskowski had banned this year's march because of the pandemic and the government urged people not to take part.

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