Battlefield at AUTH: Over 200 arrests after Molotov cocktail incidents
Over 200 people have been arrested following violent clashes at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, sparked by a party at the Polytechnic School.
Authorities reported that over 200 individuals were arrested after violent confrontations erupted at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), following a party at the Polytechnic School. The clashes began around 2 AM when a group of masked individuals began launching Molotov cocktails and stones at police forces deployed at the scene. In response, law enforcement used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the crowd, and a water cannon was deployed to control the situation.
The violence escalated quickly, with reports of significant property damage, including the engulfing of a car in flames due to the Molotov cocktails. Additionally, two other vehicles sustained severe damage during the incidents. The unrest also resulted in injuries, with at least one policeman being hospitalized for burns sustained during the clashes. The university, known for its history of protests and confrontations with authorities, has once again become a focal point of tension in Greece.
These events highlight ongoing issues related to student protests and police response in academic settings in Greece. With the number of arrests exceeding 200, this incident raises questions about public safety, the right to demonstration, and the methods used by police to manage such volatile situations. The response to these clashes may have broader implications for future protests and the relationship between universities, students, and law enforcement in the region.