Athens Erupts in Violence on Anniversary of Teenager's Death

12:34 7/12/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Clashes between protesters and police marred the commemoration of Alexandros Grigoropoulos' death in Athens, marking the 16th anniversary of the teenager's fatal shooting by a police officer in 2008.

The violence erupted in the Exarchia district, a traditional flashpoint for demonstrations.

Hooded individuals set fire to rubbish bins and erected barricades in the streets, throwing Molotov cocktails and rocks

at police. Law enforcement responded with tear gas and stun grenades in an attempt to disperse the crowds. The clashes spread to other areas of central Athens, further escalating the volatile situation.

The death of Alexandros Grigoropoulos on December 6, 2008, triggered widespread riots across Greece, leaving a deep scar on the nation's psyche. 

Annual marches commemorating his death often culminate in confrontations between protesters and police, with tensions remaining high.

Authorities are on high alert as they deal with the aftermath of the latest violence, which underscores the enduring impact of the tragedy and the ongoing tensions surrounding police conduct and accountability. The clashes serve as a reminder of the deep divisions that still exist within Greek society and the challenges faced in addressing issues of police brutality and social unrest.

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