A violent confrontation at Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Duisburg, North Rhine-Westphalia, left 11 people injured after more than 40 individuals took part in a melee that reportedly involved pepper spray, knives, kirpans and a firearm. The incident was reported by German newspaper Bild and triggered a large police response, including special tactical units.
Eyewitnesses told Bild the fight was linked to long-running disputes over the gurdwara’s management and finances, with tensions between former and current committee members over influence and control. Police have not officially confirmed a motive.
Roughly 100 officers, including a Special Task Force (SEK) unit from Düsseldorf, surrounded the building after reports of gunfire. Heavily armed personnel and a police helicopter were deployed. Authorities sealed the gurdwara and, concerned an armed suspect remained inside, SEK officers later entered the premises. No active gunman was located, though at least one person was detained.
Investigators are reconstructing the events and identifying those responsible. While no firearm has been recovered, cartridge cases found at the scene indicate a blank-firing weapon may have been used. The violence appears connected to an ongoing internal community conflict over committee control and alleged financial disagreements.
