Swiss police announced on Sunday violent clashes erupted during a pro-Palestinian protest in the capital Bern over the weekend, resulting in injuries to 18 police officers and two protesters, and causing significant property damage.

The protest, held without a permit on Saturday afternoon, involved more than 5,000 people, many dressed in black and wearing masks, who clashed with police and vandalized property.

Bern police stated in a release that “the protest turned into disturbances, causing severe property damage.”

They added that law enforcement officers were repeatedly attacked with dangerous objects, including construction equipment, furniture, stones, bottles, fire extinguishers, fireworks, and laser pointers.

The police confirmed they responded “forcefully,” using water hoses, tear gas, rubber bullets, and batons.

They reported that 16 men and two women officers were injured, with four hospitalized, and two other individuals required medical care following the clashes.

The statement described the property damage as “severe,” including broken storefronts, ATM screens, defaced facades, and damage to nine police vehicles.

Police estimated the total damage to be in the “millions” of Swiss francs. They arrested 536 people, checked their identities, and removed them from the area.

The statement added that one person checked had an outstanding arrest warrant, and others may face charges including rioting, property damage, home invasion, bodily harm, arson, and violence or threats against authorities.