The blockade was originally planned for Wednesday. Then it come to light that Mr Bush will by flying in a day early so plans are hastily rearranged. Laage is a military airport and it the middle of nowhere. Upon arrival cops stop the coach and we are told that all demos are banned around the airport for the duration of the G8. However the Police have made an exception as there are thousands of people converging on the area so they offer to escort us to the designated protest area. How considerate of them…
No demos here.
Heading for designated protest zone
Trumpet player keeps us entertained.
Cop bursts into song.
This is as close as we get.
Welcome to the prez.
More music.
The rain doesn’t dampen spirits.
Policeman suffering from clown denial.
No way through here.
Roadblock is cleared.
We hear before long that Air Force 1 is landing so a deafening chorus of booing welcomes Mr Bush to Germany. Shortly after 3 helicopter gunships are seen heading in the direction of Heilingendam presumably with Bush on board. No chance of him being driven then?
After the demo people split off into groups and go for a ramble around the fields much to the annoyance of the Police who start running around in all directions in that panicked way that cops do so well. Some activists are dragged from the road others are kettled in various locations. Special mention must be given to the Police dogs. Unlike their canine counterparts over here they are not what you would describe as an asset to law and order. Firstly some of them are so skinny and stressed they look more like new arrivals at Batersea dogs home than anything else. Secondly they seem to have zero training. They are kept permanently muzzled which is unsurprising as they are more interested in attacking the groins of their handlers than anything else. Anarcho canines?
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