On Tuesday, November 19, German police dismantled an eco-activists camp located in a forest near Tesla’s factory in Grünheide, close to Berlin. The operation was prompted by violations of public order and safety concerns.
The activists had settled in the pine forest near Elon Musk’s factory back in February, protesting Tesla’s plans to expand the site. The company intends to build a freight station and warehouse facilities, which would require clearing part of the forest. The activists also raised concerns about potential threats to local water resources.
On Monday, November 18, police first entered the camp to evacuate treehouses as part of an inspection for unexploded ordnance from World War II. However, the activists refused to leave and climbed up into the trees.
According to German media, police had to forcibly remove six protesters who refused to vacate their shelters voluntarily. By Tuesday, the camp was completely dismantled.
Police spokesperson Daniel Keip stated that the activists repeatedly violated laws, and attempts to establish contact with their leaders were unsuccessful. This raised concerns that the protests could escalate beyond peaceful demonstrations.
The area near the factory has been under investigation for some time due to suspicions of unexploded wartime ordnance.
