Baltimore---Hundreds of protesters broke the city of Baltimore's curfew on Saturday and several were arrested, a day after six police officers were charged over the death of an African-American man in their custody.
Police in riot gear met crowds of demonstrators as the 10:00 pm to 5:00 am order to stay indoors went into effect.
For several nights in a row protesters have defied the curfew, imposed following riots, prompting numerous arrests.
Despite the curfew arrests that included scuffles with police, tension has subsided considerably in the city. Baltimore has seen days of protests over alleged police racism and excessive force following the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray who was in police custody.
A spontaneous street party of thousands of people erupted in Baltimore during the day Saturday a day after charges were announced against the officers involved in Gray's arrest.
People marching, singing and dancing in the streets cheered the surprise charges of the officers -- three of them black. They face a range of charges, including second-degree murder and manslaughter.
"Peace and calm is always better than violence," Police Commissioner Anthony Batts told reporters.
"My hope is that we work towards a new level of partnership in all parts of our community as we move forward."
The Maryland National Guard said on Twitter it had nearly 3,000 soldiers and airmen ready to help "keep the peace" in the city.
But in contrast to the violence and looting that flared after Gray's funeral on Monday, there was a festive atmosphere in Baltimore, as demonstrators -- white and black -- gathered at City Hall, the focal point of rallies in recent days.
"I am so inspired and encouraged by what I see," Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake told CBS television affiliate WJZ.
"I think that there's a lot of hope that in peace we can seek justice."
After the rally, protesters marched toward the neighborhood where Gray was arrested on April 12. He died a week later from his injuries.
"Whose streets? Our streets!" they chanted.”
AFP
