An unexpected march, marked by anti-Ukrainian and anti-government sentiments, unfolded through the heart of Plzeň on a Saturday afternoon, overseen by law enforcement. Approximately 100 participants gathered at the central train station, and the event concluded without untoward incidents, with the protestors dispersing around 3:30 pm.

The demonstration was a response to appeals circulated on social media following reports of an 18-year-old Ukrainian male who had sexually assaulted and attempted to murder a girl three years his junior within the city the previous Tuesday. Authorities clarified that he was not a refugee and had been residing in the Czech Republic for a significant period.

The protesters, many waving Czech flags and accompanied by an anti-riot contingent, marched from Plzeň’s central train station to náměstí Republiky (Republic Square) by 2:30 pm. Chants including “Go home!”, “This is our home!”, and “We’ve had enough!” echoed during the procession. By approximately 3:30 pm, the demonstrators dispersed in front of City Hall.

Motivations and Sentiments

Karel, a protester accompanied by his wife and stroller, expressed concerns about the safety of children and stated, “To prevent Ukrainians from harming our children and to see them leave our country. It’s unbearable.” When asked if he would participate if the assailant were Czech, he affirmed his presence. Another participant, David, highlighted perceptions of differing responsibilities between Czech and Ukrainian boys, asserting that Czech boys engage in education and apprenticeships while Ukrainian boys seem idle.

Zdeněk, another march participant, raised concerns about alleged privileges of Ukrainians, claiming they burden pensioners and mothers. He also voiced dissatisfaction with government actions, stating, “It’s mainly the government that has driven me to be here. Their actions are palpable.”

Mayor’s Response and Incident Details

Roman Zarzycký (ANO), Plzeň’s mayor, acknowledged the peaceful nature of the gathering and expressed relief that the event did not escalate significantly. Responding to the anti-Ukrainian sentiment, he stressed, “Collective guilt cannot be assigned.” While acknowledging the heinousness of the incident that triggered the march, he indicated that the protest would not lead to constructive outcomes, as the perpetrator had been apprehended and was in custody.

The incident that spurred the demonstration occurred in the Doubravka district, where the victim, acquainted with the assailant, was subjected to sexual assault and attempted murder. The victim managed to feign death after being bound and gagged, leading to her eventual rescue and hospitalization for injuries.