Greek police arrested 30 people, while two police officers were injured, following violent clashes that broke out at the Controlled Temporary Accommodation Facility for Asylum Seekers in Serres, northern Greece, on Wednesday, Nov. 12
The unrest began when groups of young migrants staged a protest over asylum procedures and living conditions within the camp.
Tensions flared shortly after noon, as demonstrators gathered outside the accommodation buildings, setting clothes on fire and hurling stones at police officers who had arrived on the scene. Some participants also attempted to tear down the perimeter fence in an effort to escape the facility.
Police forces quickly intervened to prevent the breakout, while firefighters managed to contain and extinguish the flames before they spread further.
During a subsequent police operation inside the facility, dozens of individuals were detained for questioning in order to identify those responsible for the disorder. Authorities also conducted a headcount of residents to confirm whether anyone had managed to flee the premises.
The situation was brought under control after about an hour. According to police reports, 30 individuals were arrested in connection with the violence. They are to appear before the public prosecutor on Thursday, Nov. 13. Charges include incitement to commit crimes, bodily harm, attempted escape, and disobedience.
Sources said the detainees are migrants from Egypt and Bangladesh. As reported the two police officers sustained minor injuries—one was struck in the leg by a stone, while another was bitten by a migrant during the confrontation.
Allegations of Poor Conditions
Serious complaints about inadequate medical care, poor hygiene, insufficient food, and incidents of violence have emerged from testimonies of asylum seekers at the closed Controlled Accommodation Facility in Serres.
Speaking to Orange Press Agency, Jamal, a 19-year-old asylum seeker from Sudan, and another resident who requested anonymity, reported severe overcrowding, the degrading transport of sick residents, and instances of abuse within the facility.