Gunshot Reports, Kirpans Drawn as Clash at Germany Gurdwara Injures 11

At least 11 people were injured after a violent clash broke out inside a gurdwara in the German city of Moers, triggering a massive police operation and an ongoing investigation into suspected internal disputes within the Sikh community.

The confrontation occurred on Sunday afternoon at Gurdwara Singh Sabha , located in the Duisburg area of North Rhine-Westphalia, when a dispute between two groups inside the temple escalated into a large-scale fight. Reports suggest more than 40 individuals were involved in the altercation during prayer hours.

Eyewitnesses said the violence began shortly before prayers when one group allegedly used pepper spray to disorient rivals , after which the situation spiralled into a brawl involving knives and kirpans , the ceremonial swords carried by initiated Sikhs. Some witnesses also claimed that a pistol was fired inside the building , though police have not officially confirmed whether live ammunition was used.

The clash created panic among worshippers, forcing many to flee the premises in fear. Witnesses described chaotic scenes with turbans scattered on the floor and people running out of the building barefoot as the confrontation intensified.

Emergency responders treated the injured at the scene, most of whom suffered head injuries or the effects of pepper spray . Authorities said at least one suspect has been detained while investigators work to identify others involved.

The scale of the violence prompted the deployment of around 100 police officers , including a Special Task Force (SEK) from Düsseldorf , along with a helicopter that monitored the area after reports of gunfire. The building was surrounded and searched by heavily armed officers.

Investigators later recovered spent cartridge cases , suggesting the weapon used might have been a blank-firing pistol , although the firearm itself has not yet been found.

Preliminary findings indicate the clash may be linked to long-running disputes over the gurdwara’s management, committee control and community funds , including disagreements between former and current administrators. However, German police say the investigation is ongoing and inquiries are “proceeding in all directions.”