A violent confrontation involving more than 40 people at Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Duisburg, North Rhine-Westphalia, left 11 people injured after attackers used pepper spray, knives, kirpans and, reportedly, a firearm. German newspaper Bild reported the incident and said it prompted a major police operation with special tactical units.
Eyewitnesses told Bild the clash stemmed from long-running disputes over the gurdwara’s management and finances, including conflicts between former and current committee members over influence and control. Police have not officially confirmed a specific motive.
Around 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, fearing an armed suspect inside, SEK officers later stormed the premises. No active gunman was found, though at least one person was detained.
Investigators are reconstructing events and identifying those responsible. While a firearm has not been recovered, cartridge cases found at the scene suggest a blank-firing weapon may have been used. The violence appears linked to an ongoing internal conflict within the community over committee control and alleged financial disagreements.
