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Dozens demonstrators arrested as Finland celebrates Independence Day

Xinhua, December 7, 2015 Adjust font size:

Dozens of anarchists were detained in the Finnish capital of Helsinki on Sunday, when the country celebrated its 98th Independence Day, local media reported.

Two confronting demonstrations were held in the Toolo district, central west Helsinki, by a group of nationalists gathering at Toloo Square and their opponents in Hesperia Park, which is only one block away.

Policemen guarded at crossroads and managed to separate the two groups.

"Nationalism is just fascist", said one of the banners held by a score of demonstrators gathering at the Hesperia Park.

The protestors tried to break through the cordon but were only dispersed by the police. National broadcaster Yle said air guns were used to prevent vandalism.

Finnish regional newspaper Lannen Media said about 200 protestors from the two groups participated in the demonstrations.

Dozens of anarchists were arrested, according to Yle.

Also on Sunday, Helsinki saw a number of other rallies against immigration and globalization. "Out of the EU", "Close borders", and "Independent Finland 2015" were some of the slogans.

The Helsinki Police Department announced earlier that they would respond to "all cases of public disorder with a very low threshold", according to the Finnish daily Helsingin Sanomat. Endit