Röszke Border Clashes — Police Use Tear Gas and Water Cannons on Migrants

On September 16, 2015, Hungary sealed its border crossing at Röszke after thousands of migrants assembled near the newly constructed fence. Police used tear gas and water cannons on crowds including women and children attempting to cross. Dozens were detained and charged under new laws criminalizing 'illegal border crossing' with up to 3 years imprisonment. The scenes were broadcast globally and placed Hungary at the epicenter of the European migrant crisis. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees condemned Hungary's response as 'shocking and unacceptable.'