Μake us preferred on Google Clashes broke out in central Thessaloniki on Wednesday after police prevented demonstrators from reaching a location where convicted far-right figure Ilias Kasidiaris was expected to speak.
Officers used tear gas and made arrests after protesters attempted to move through the city despite a police order prohibiting outdoor public gatherings. Video published by local news outlet ThessPost.gr appeared to show a young man being struck on the head during the confrontation.
The demonstrators included members of communist, left-wing and far-left organizations, as well as anti-authoritarian groups protesting Kasidiaris’ planned appearance.
Police block march through city center
The protesters initially assembled at the statue of Eleftherios Venizelos before attempting to march toward Egnatia Street. Near Aristotelous, they encountered police forces that blocked their passage, triggering the clashes.
Police had formed a barrier to prevent the group from advancing toward the area where Kasidiaris was expected to deliver a speech.
Asteris Panagiotou, president of SEPETE, strongly criticized the police response, accusing authorities of protecting Kasidiaris and allowing a convicted fascist and Nazi criminal a platform on Greece’s October 28 national anniversary.
Public gathering ban imposed for the day
The clashes followed a police decision announced late Tuesday to prohibit outdoor public gatherings throughout central Thessaloniki and the Vardaris area.
The restriction was scheduled to remain in effect from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday. According to the police, the measure was intended to prevent tensions and protect public safety during the national anniversary.
