REPORTS
Unjustified use of chemicals by police officer at Thanasis Papakonstantinou’s protest concert
According to complaints and audio-visual material, riot police threw tear gas into the audience watching a protest concert by Thanasis Papakonstantinou at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Trying to break free and avoid the chemicals, much of the audience – reportedly numbering around 5,000 people – headed to Egnatia Street, where they staged a spontaneous protest against police violence and police repression at universities. This was followed by a renewed attack by the police with tear gas and water cannons.
The Greek police maintain that the riot police were attempting to disperse a small group of people who had attacked the police with stones. They claim that no chemicals were used on the concert audience – a claim belied by video footage. They claim that during the altercation that followed,officers were attacked, as a result of which four people were detained and charges filed against one.
In addition, the ability of police officers to use violence is governed by the same guarantees as in any other case, as reflected in the Code of Criminal Procedure (Article 256), Presidential Decree 141/1991 (Article 120), Presidential Decree 254/2004 (Code of Police Ethics) and in the 2005 Circular issued by the Headquarters of the Hellenic Police Force.
Bank Account number: 1100 0232 0016 560
IBAN: GR56 0140 1100 1100 0232 0016 560
BIC: CRBAGRAA
In a time where the very foundations of democracy are gradually being eroded by the rise of extreme nationalism, alt-right movements, the spread of disinformation and corporate capture, the efforts of organisations such as Vouliwatch are more relevant than ever.
We rely on the generosity of each and every one of you to continue with our efforts for more transparency and accounta
By financially supporting Vouliwatch you support our litigation strategy, our campaigns for transparency and accountability in the political system, the development of new civic tech tools, our research projects and last but not least our impartial and accurate
