Clashes erupt in Argos protest over police shooting of 20-year-old
Molotov cocktail thrown, tear gas deployed and one arrest made as demonstration over the fatal police shooting of Thodoris Zavradinos Karababas escalated in the Greek city.
Protest over police killing draws a crowd
A demonstration over the death of 20-year-old Thodoris Zavradinos Karababas took place on July 25 in Argos, drawing dozens of citizens and groups from across Greece. The 20-year-old was fatally shot by officers of the O.P.K.E. unit, though details of the shooting were not provided by local authorities. Participants gathered at the square outside the Archaeological Museum of Argos, chanting "From Argos to Aspropyrgos we raise walls against state and employer murders." The protest aimed to demand justice and an end to police violence.
Clashes break out during march
As the procession moved through central streets, tensions escalated near the Agia Aikaterini area. A person reportedly threw a Molotov cocktail at police, according to Hellenic Police statements. The attacks quickly expanded to include fire extinguishers, wooden planks, and flash-bang grenades, creating a volatile situation with thick smoke.
- Dozens of citizens and groups from across Greece assemble at the Archaeological Museum of Argos.
- A Molotov cocktail is thrown, followed by attacks using fire extinguishers and other objects.
- Riot police intervene with chemical agents and tear gas to push back demonstrators.
- One person is arrested, and at least one other is taken into custody for questioning.
Riot police respond with tear gas
Three units of the MAT riot police were deployed to restore order. Officers used chemical agents and tear gas to disperse the crowd, with citizens seen retreating through the smoke. Police made one arrest and detained at least one other individual; the arrested person is said to belong to the anti-authoritarian movement, according to police sources. No injuries were reported in the immediate aftermath.
Investigation and ongoing alert
After the clashes, police cordoned off the area and maintained a heavy presence in Argos. Authorities are working to identify additional suspects and are searching for others involved. The Hellenic Police confirmed that riot units remain on alert in the city. The fatal shooting has sparked widespread anger, with demonstrations spreading nationally. No official statement from the police union or government was cited in local coverage.
