Caught on camera: Violent gurudwara fight leaves 11 injured in Germany

Several videos of the incident have gone viral, showing two groups confronting each other inside the Sikh place of worship.

Footage appears to show individuals using sharp weapons, including knives and kirpans, during the altercation.

Local media reports said around 40 people were involved in the clash.

Witnesses told Bild that bladed weapons and even a firearm may have been used during the violence.

Police intervened and separated the groups, while riot squad officers surrounded the building with submachine guns, eventually bringing the situation under control, the report said.

The exact cause of the clash remains unclear. However, initial investigations suggest the violence may have stemmed from internal disputes linked to a newly formed board of directors within the gurudwara, according to Bild.

A 56-year-old eyewitness told Bild: “This must have been planned. Shortly before the service began, the attackers suddenly used pepper spray on their opponents. Then one of them fired a pistol. I also saw knives. The background is a dispute between former and current board members, which also involves temple funds. There have been conflicts for some time, mainly over influence and control. When the attack began, many fled in panic; it could have ended much worse. Fortunately, no one’s life is in danger.”

The newspaper reported that none of the injured is in a life-threatening condition.

Those hurt were treated at the scene by paramedics and an emergency physician.