Greece descended into chaos on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets to protest against a new wave of austerity cuts amid a nationwide walkout. Reports that a former conservative minister was wounded were announced.
Strikes by public service workers have resulted in grounded flights, closed schools and a shut down of public transport.
Tens of thousands marched against austerity measures aimed at pulling the country out of its debt crisis.
Riot police answered with dozens of rounds of teargas in clashes that lasted more than an hour. Police chased hooded youths who threw sticks and stones.
Two petrol bombs were thrown at two luxury hotels in central Syntagma square.
Around 200 leftist protesters chased former Transport Minister Kostis Hatzidakis as he left parliament, shouting: “Thieves! Shame on you!” They threw stones and beat him with sticks until he took flight into a nearby building.
His face was covered in blood as he found shelter in a local building. Police said at least 10 people were detained and three injured (photo).
Three cars on Syntagma Square were in flames. One luxury hotel balcony was on fire after petrol bombs were thrown. Smoke and teargas covered the square and bystanders scrambled frantically to safety.
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