On Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 6 p.m., an Eritrean event took place on Maienstrasse in Grenchen to celebrate the opening of a local restaurant. The Solothurn Cantonal Police had previously been informed that pro-regime artists, among others, would be performing at the event and that invitations had been posted on social media. The police had also learned that Eritrean nationals critical of the regime had been called upon to disrupt the event.
As part of the ongoing situation assessment, the Solothurn Cantonal Police have drawn up a corresponding plan and initiated appropriate measures. They have been in close contact with the relevant authorities and institutions in this regard. In cooperative discussions with the venue operator, a performance by the aforementioned artists was decided against. Nevertheless, a clash between the two groups could not be ruled out.
A proportionate, yet strong, and visible police presence in the area surrounding the event venue and in the Grenchen region clearly signaled to potential event attendees that the Solothurn Cantonal Police will not tolerate criminal offenses or violent clashes. The police's goal was to prevent a possible clash between the two groups and the resulting riots and property damage. The priority was the safety of the citizens. The event passed peacefully and without any significant incidents.
A large police force consisting of members of the Solothurn and Bern cantonal police forces was deployed. Further support was provided by the federal police (fedpol) and the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCA).
