Tallinn Gay Pride Parade Attacked

TALLINN, ESTONIA -- More than a dozen people were injured when a gay pride parade in Estonia's capitol Tallinn was attacked by thugs Saturday. Around 20 young men attacked the parade as some 500 gay-rights supporters with rainbow flags walked through the streets of Tallinn, event organizers told AFP.

"It’s particularly revolting that the gang, calling themselves Estonian patriots, attacked women demonstrators first. Then they started throwing stones and sticks at everyone," parade spokeswoman Lisette Kampus told AFP.

She also criticized police. "There were too few police present so they could not really handle the violent attack."

Police said they detained six people for violating public order.

The parade set off 20 minutes late after police received a call warning that bombs would explode in Tallinn’s Old Town shortly before the event was to begin. No explosive devices were found.

Saturday's parade was the third held in the city and the largest so far. The previous two parades, held last year and in 2004, took place without major incidents.