Greta Thunberg: Climate activist charged with disobeying police order at protest

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has been charged with disobeying a police order during a protest in her home country.

The 20-year-old environmental campaigner was arrested after allegedly refusing to leave the demonstration in the southern city of Malmo on 19 June.

Activists reportedly blocked oil tankers in the harbour.

A statement by Swedish prosecutors said a “young woman” – confirmed as Ms Thunberg by the prosecution agency – was charged because she “refused to comply with police orders to leave the scene”.

The crime of disobedience is typically punishable with a fine if convicted, but there is a chance the activist could face up to six months in prison.

Ms Thunberg posted on Instagram during the protest saying: “The climate crisis is already a matter of life and death for countless people.

“We chose to not be bystanders, and instead physically stop the fossil fuel infrastructure. We are reclaiming the future.”

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Prosecutor Charlotte Ottosen said: “You have the freedom to demonstrate, but you must not demonstrate in such a way that it causes disturbances for others.”

Ms Thunberg will reportedly face a trial at the end of July.