The neighborhood of Exarcheia and several major streets in downtown Athens, Greece, looked like they were bombarded after Saturday’s riots that marked the sixth anniversary of teenager Alexandros Grigoropoulos‘ assassination by a policeman.
Burned vehicles and bank ATMs, broken store windows and bus stops, looted shops and destroyed traffic lights were some of the extensive damages in the area.
According to the police, 296 people were arrested, 253 of them were released later while 43 were taken to jail, pending charges. Police also announced that 12 officers were injured.
“Downtown Athens businesses are repeatedly damaged by demonstrations, protest rallies and vandalism,” said Giorgos Floros, board member of the Athens Chamber of Tradesmen.
Greek police have received a lot of fire over the riots handling. Protesters spoke of excessive use of force and brutality. A video released by Reuters shows a policeman hitting a man who is already handcuffed.
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