Tourist in Rhodes Lowers Greek Flag and Attacks Police Officer

An unprecedented incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, October 12, 2025, in Rhodes.

A 34-year-old tourist holding a Danish passport (her nationality was not disclosed) lowered the Greek flag from the facade of the Rhodes Security Sub-Directorate and subsequently attacked a police officer during her arrest. The incident sparked strong reactions, and the perpetrator was brought to justice.

The Incident Outside the Security Sub-Directorate

At approximately 04:10, the woman approached the flagpole bearing the Greek flag at the entrance of the building located at 45 Ethnikon Dodekanision Street.

Without apparent reason, she lowered the flag and began running while holding it. Her actions were immediately noticed by passersby, who alerted the authorities.

Police officers from the Rhodes Crime Investigation Unit (Y.D.E.E.), who were patrolling the area, located her a few meters away, where she had already discarded the flag on the street.

The 34-year-old appeared to be in a state of intense emotional distress. When the officers approached her to investigate the incident, her reaction was unpredictably violent.

Attack and Resistance During Arrest

During the officers’ attempt to arrest her, the woman responded with aggression. She verbally abused the officers in English, refused to comply, and resisted being handcuffed.

According to the police report, during the struggle, she struck a 42-year-old sergeant in the face with her fist and kicked him in the right knee.

Additionally, she repeatedly spat at the officer, causing tension and concern for the safety of those involved.

After efforts to restrain her, the police managed to subdue her and transport her to the Security Sub-Directorate for further investigation.

The authorities ordered a forensic medical examination for the injured officer to assess the extent of his injuries.

The case file includes charges of insulting a national symbol, resisting arrest, verbal abuse, and causing bodily harm to a police officer in the line of duty.

The Rhodes Misdemeanor Court sentenced the 34-year-old to nine months in prison and a €500 fine, with a three-year suspension.

The decision was announced yesterday, October 13, 2025.