Police say they rushed funeral after rocks thrown at officers, 6 arrested

Police defend rushing at crowds at the funeral of Shireen Abu Akleh, saying that mourners, including those near the coffin, had been throwing rocks and objects at police.

“Before and at the start of the funeral procession, after incitement and violent riots began in the hospital plaza, which included throwing stones and objects at the policemen, the policemen had to disperse and repel the rioters and make arrests in order to allow the funeral to take place as required,” police say in a statement.

They also release video showing rocks being thrown and a police commander warning the crowd that if they continue to chant nationalist and inciting calls, they will stop the funeral.

“The stones and objects were also thrown by those near the coffin at the hospital These rioters even damaged the funeral vehicle and tried to prevent it from driving,” police say.

“We are sorrowed by the cynical exploitation made by instigators, in the death of the journalist,” police say, adding that six people were arrested.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.