Several tractors, trucks and cars gathered on Federal Highway 5 near Elstal, west of Berlin. They dumped rubbish, wood, dung heaps and manure onto the road - apparently without warning.
Emergency services called in a rescue company to clear at least one lane each. But after the towing company had cleared the first blocking vehicle, the company owner received a call. Officers were then seconded to the salvage company's headquarters for protection. A lawyer contacted the emergency services - who conveyed a demand from the protesters: If Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir came, the blockade would be lifted immediately.