Athens unrest: Public outcry, molotovs, and economic strife
During the riots in Athens, where Molotov cocktails were used, more than 70 people were detained, reports the "Independent." The last few weeks have also seen demonstrations related to the rising cost of living. Thousands of Greeks demanded wage increases, and strikes brought public transportation to a standstill.
Violent riots erupted in Athens, during which protesters used Molotov cocktails against the police. As a result of the clashes, more than 70 people were detained. The events occurred in the Exarchia district, popular among tourists from the United Kingdom.
Local media reported that the riots began after a concert in a nearby park. Protesters threw fireworks and rocks at the police station and also set fire to parked cars and motorcycles.
The Greek police reported that one officer was injured. The clashes took place on Saturday night, and attacks on the police occurred at the intersection of Kallidromiou and E. Benaki streets.
Political context of the riots
The riots happened a few days after a bomb exploded in central Athens, following an anonymous tip-off to the authorities. The explosion occurred in front of the offices of Hellenic Train, the main Greek railway company, which was involved in a train disaster in 2023 that resulted in 57 deaths.
Many relatives of victims and political parties accuse the railway company and the conservative government of neglecting the country's transportation system.
The last few weeks have also seen demonstrations related to the rising cost of living. Thousands of Greeks demanded wage increases, and strikes had a paralyzing effect on public transportation.
