Thessaloniki: The Unlicensed Party, Countless Molotov Cocktails, and the Ministry's Deadline for AUTH to Explain the Incidents at the University
Violent clashes erupted at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki following an unlicensed party, resulting in injuries and mass arrests amid accusations of inadequate safety measures.
The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki was the scene of violent clashes after an unlicensed party was held at the Polytechnic School, an event that police claim occurs annually. The situation escalated when attendees launched 'countless' Molotov cocktails at law enforcement, resulting in injuries, including a police officer who was hit in the face and neck. The severity of the events prompted the union of police officers in Thessaloniki to describe the university as a 'lawless vineyard', emphasizing the need for accountability and security on campus.
Following the chaos, the authorities conducted mass arrests, with a reported 313 individuals taken into custody. These incidents have brought the issue of safety at the university into sharp focus, leading the Ministry to set a deadline for the university to explain what occurred. The events not only highlight ongoing tensions between students and law enforcement but also raise significant concerns about the administrative and security measures implemented at Greek universities.
The implications of this incident extend beyond just a local university, as similar occurrences have been reported in the past, calling into question the effectiveness of university policies and police interaction during such events. There is a growing demand from both the public and the police union for stricter regulations regarding unauthorized gatherings at educational institutions, challenging the balance between student rights and campus safety.