Far-right extremists gather to commemorate the death of Adolf Hitler's deputy, Rudolf Hess, in Berlin's western district of Spandau, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017. Police are allowing the march, but participants are not allowed to glorify Hess, who died at Spandau prison 30 years ago. A counter demonstration is also expected. (Maurizio Gambarini/dpa via AP)
The Associated Press
BERLIN (AP) - Berlin police say 39 people were detained Saturday in connection with a far-right march commemorating the 30th anniversary of the death of high-ranking Nazi official Rudolf Hess.
More than 500 neo-Nazis had attempted to march to the site of the former prison in Berlin's western district of Spandau where Hess died in 1987, but were blocked by left-wing groups and local residents.
Police said Sunday that 35 of those detained belonged to the far-right march, while four were taking part in the counter-protest.
Twelve of the far-right protesters are being investigated for displaying forbidden symbols.
Others detained are being investigated for breach of the piece, assault, resisting arrest, drug offenses and breaking the law on public assembly.
The march was accompanied by about 1,000 police officers and passed largely peacefully.
A counter demonstration marches in Berlin, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017 after Police in Berlin have given far-right extremists permission to hold a 500-person strong rally commemorating the death of Adolf Hitler's deputy Rudolf Hess in the city's western district of Spandau. ( Maurizio Gambarini/dpa via AP)
The Associated Press
In this Aug. 19, 2017 photo participants at a far-right protest commemorating the 30th anniversary of the death of leading Nazi figure Rudolf Hess are frisked by police in Berlin, Germany. (AP Photo/Frank Jordans)
The Associated Press
In this Aug. 19, 2017 photo participants at a far-right protest commemorating the 30th anniversary of the death of leading Nazi figure Rudolf Hess rally in Berlin, Germany, on Saturday, August 19, 2017. (AP Photo/Frank Jordans)
The Associated Press