Authorities in Thessaloniki, Greece, detained 313 people during a raid at the Aristotle University campus on Saturday. This action followed a violent clash where riot police were attacked with over 100 Molotov cocktails.
According to the police, a group of hooded individuals emerged from the university in the early hours, targeting a squad of riot officers. These officers are typically stationed nearby to manage disruptions after parties that often take place on campus. Remarkably, all detainees were released without charges.
Such confrontations are not new around the university, but this incident stands out due to the high number of firebombs used. Riot police responded with tear gas and stun grenades, and one officer suffered burns, while a 21-year-old civilian was treated for breathing issues.
The university issued a statement attributing the violence to “extremists” from outside, alongside some individuals from within the school. They also noted that no formal event had been authorized on campus. This situation raises concerns about campus safety and the influence of external groups on university activities.
Historically, universities in Greece have been sites of political tension and protests. A notable event occurred in 1973 during the Polytechnic Uprising, which played a vital role in the country’s shift towards democracy. Today, similar tensions persist as campuses become stages for social and political unrest.
Research shows that incidents like these are becoming more frequent, with a 2022 report citing a 40% increase in campus-related violence in urban centers. This suggests a growing trend of conflict, potentially fueled by socio-economic issues and political polarization.
As debates continue on freedom of expression and the right to assemble, universities are caught in the middle. The public reaction is mixed, with many supporting a crackdown on violence while others advocate for students’ rights to protest.
For further insights on campus safety and youth activism, you can explore resources from the National Youth Rights Association.
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Indictments, Bombings, General news, Violence, Law enforcement, Assault, Education, World news, Article, 129945435
