Greece: Increased security presence in Athens

Event

Greek authorities announced on Friday, March 2, that an additional 200 police officers would be deployed to the capital Athens in a bid to combat attacks by anarchist groups. Earlier on Friday, a demonstration staged by youths resulted in shops being attacked and damaged - the second such attacks on commercial establishments that week.

Context

Anarchist groups have carried out attacks and violent demonstrations in response to the jailing of a suspect accused of mailing a bomb to former Prime Minister Lucas Papademos, an attack that left the politician injured.

Advice

Individuals in Athens are advised to remain vigilant, report and suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.