Significant violence erupted outside the Polytechnic School at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on Saturday morning, prompting the university's Rectorate to accuse extremist elements of orchestrating the attack against police forces. According to a press release from AUTH, individuals outside the university collaborated with like-minded students inside the Polytechnic School, exploiting the open campus due to ongoing classes to launch their assault on the police. One officer was injured during the clashes, and damage was reported to parked vehicles.

The university officials clarified that reports claiming permission was granted for a party within the school were false, reinforcing that such activities are prohibited by law. The authorities underscored their commitment to maintaining a safe academic environment and announced that an investigation is underway, in collaboration with the Hellenic Police, to determine if students participated in these events. This incident raises serious concerns regarding campus safety and the involvement of extremist groups in student affairs.

This escalation of violence has prompted a strong response from the Ministry of Education, who issued a 48-hour ultimatum to address these issues. The implications of this ultimatum may lead to stricter measures within universities and highlight the ongoing struggle against extremist elements within the educational system, necessitating a thorough understanding of the factors that contribute to such violent incidents on academic campuses across Greece.