The Journalists' Union of the Athens Daily Newspapers (ESIEA) issued a statement four days after the injury of photojournalists Orestis Panagiotou and Alexandros Belte, expressing their support for their colleagues. Speaking to Mega TV, photojournalist Marios Lolos said: "Orestis' camera reminded me of a colleague's camera that had been injured in a war zone. If we’re going to treat Syntagma like a war zone, I can accept that..."

The ESIEA Board condemned the injury of photojournalists Orestis Panagiotou and Alexandros Beltes, who were attacked by unknown assailants and police forces while covering a rally in Syntagma Square on the second anniversary of the deadly train crash in Tempe.

The statement reads:

“ESIEA stands in solidarity with our colleagues who were carrying out their duty to inform the public. We condemn all forms of violence against citizens peacefully demonstrating. Such attacks will not deter journalists. We remain at the frontline for freedom of expression and democracy. We wish for a swift recovery for our colleagues.”

Orestis Panagiotou was injured to the head during the demonstration by a flashbang grenade, which resulted in hearing loss.

Photojournalist Marios Lolos: “Orestis’ camera reminded me of a colleague’s camera that had been injured in a war zone”

“If we’re going to treat Syntagma like a war zone, I can accept that. However, since I believe Syntagma follows democratic rules and the police have rules of engagement, I cannot accept a camera covered in blood. It’s the same case as mine, when I was hit by a flashbang to the head just a month ago.”

Marios Lolos was also hit by a flashbang grenade during the protest on January 26.

Nick Paleologos / SOOC

He criticized the police’s statement, calling it provocative. He recalled how he had been attacked by police officers several times.

“In 2012, when I was hit and hospitalized with head injuries, we filed a lawsuit and asked for the responsible officer to be found.”

“We have filed numerous lawsuits and complaints as a Union, but not one officer has been identified, except for two cases that went to court.”

“When they hit our heads, they hit your eyes. Our grandparents fought for the existence of free information. It is unthinkable for members of the press to be hit by flashbang grenades and beaten with batons,” Marios Lolos emphasized.

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