Pink Floyd star Roger Waters says he was opposing "fascism, injustice and bigotry" when he posed firing an imitation machine gun whereas carrying a Nazi-inspired uniform at a live performance in Berlin.

Police in Germany have launched an investigation after the British musician was filmed wearing a long black coat and red armband - that includes crossed hammers as a substitute of swastikas - as he pretended to shoot the faux weapon throughout a skit between songs.

Germany has strict guidelines in opposition to using Nazi imagery - punishable by as much as three years in jail - though its legal guidelines do enable exceptions for creative or instructional causes.

Video clips and images of the present, on the German capital's Mercedes-Benz Arena on 17 May, have sparked outrage.

Another picture of the live performance exhibits the title of Holocaust sufferer Anne Frank in giant letters as a backdrop.

In a press release, Waters mentioned the efficiency had "attracted bad faith attacks from those who want to smear and silence me because they disagree with my political views and moral principles."

"The elements of my performance that have been questioned are quite clearly a statement in opposition to fascism, injustice, and bigotry in all its forms," he added.

"Attempts to portray those elements as something else are disingenuous and politically motivated."

Water mentioned the depiction of an "unhinged fascist demagogue has been a feature of my shows since Pink Floyd's The Wall in 1980".

He added: "I have spent my entire life speaking out against authoritarianism and oppression wherever I see it.

"When I used to be a baby after the struggle, the title of Anne Frank was usually spoken in our home, she turned a everlasting reminder of what occurs when fascism is left unchecked.

"My parents fought the Nazis in World War II, with my father paying the ultimate price.

"Regardless of the results of the assaults in opposition to me, I'll proceed to sentence injustice and all those that perpetrate it."