Berlin, July 11 (RHC)-- At least 123 German police officers have been injured in clashes with thousands of leftist protesters in Berlin.

According to police officials, the casualties occurred on Saturday night following weeks of escalating tensions around a squatted building which is a popular meeting point for leftist youth activists in the capital.  Police said violence erupted as protesters started hurling rocks and bottles at the security personnel deployed in Friedrichshain district, smashing shop windows and setting cars on fire.

The flashpoint building, located in the center of the German capital, is regarded as a gathering spot for those who are opposed to rising rents and the gentrification of Berlin.  Reports said some 1,800 officers had been sent to confront the 3,500-strong crowd, adding that the officers were forced to use batons and tear gas as the situation worsened.