In a shocking display at Syntagma Square, the government's riot police used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse a massive protest concerning the recent Tempi tragedy.
Following direct orders, the police applied what many are calling excessive force to break up the demonstration, sparking significant public outrage.
The decision to deploy such aggressive tactics highlighted the government's escalating panic in the face of widespread public discontent. Citizens were calling for justice regarding the Tempi incident, only to be met with tear gas and violent suppression tactics, a move that has been interpreted as an alarming departure from democratic principles.
The aftermath of these actions resulted in numerous injuries among protesters, as documented in multiple videos. Among those injured was well-known photojournalist Marios Lolos, who sustained a head injury while attempting to report on the event.
Critics argue that the government's actions reflect a disturbing trend toward undermining press freedom, which is regarded as a fundamental pillar of any democratic society. With the consent of the government, police actions also included arrests, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among demonstrators. Despite the apparent injustice, protestors demanded the immediate release of those detained, though their calls went largely unheeded.
A particularly poignant moment captured on video showed the arrest of an injured protester, bleeding from a head wound. Onlookers expressed their disbelief and frustration, with shouts of "Aren't you ashamed?" directed at police officers. Pleas from the crowd to release the injured protester were met with further police action, including the use of tear gas.
The events have sparked a wider conversation about the state's response to public demonstrations and the role of the press in society, as the citizens of Greece continue to seek accountability and justice for the tragedy at Tempi.