Athens: Huge demonstration, lots of molotov and tear gas

Thousands of Greeks protested the harsh austerity measures that crack down economically every household. The general strike called for December 15 may have deserted the public administration, courts, airports, sea ports and vital functions of the state, but filled the streets of major Greek cities with angry people.

However in Athens even though the demonstrations were peaceful …  riots could not be avoided!

It was shortly after 13:00 when the “known”-”unknown” hood wearing groups turned downtown Athens into a battle field. According to information the incident that sparked the “street war” was a former centre-right Minister walking around.

In Syntagma square they set cars on fire, threw stones and Molotov cocktails against the riot police.

Some damaged the front of the near by Finance Ministry.

Riots police started to heavily fire tear gas not only against the rioting groups but also against anyone around, including the peaceful demonstrators.

There are reports of “flying stones” and fires on Panepistimiou street.

(source: Greek Portal NewsIt. Greek media are striking today, but as the their Union ESHEA doe not recognise as “journalists” media people working for internet portals, NewsIt is not on strike. Which I consider as fully correct! See more demonstration and riots pictures here )

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