Greek police are preparing for heightened security measures ahead of mass gatherings planned for Friday, 28 February, to mark the anniversary of the Tempe train disaster. ELAS spokesperson Kalliopi Dimoglidou announced that police officers will be deployed "everywhere, even among the gathered," as authorities brace for potential unrest.
Speaking to Action24, Dimoglidou described the measures as “draconian” and called on protesters to help “isolate individuals who may attempt to incite violence.” She stated:
“Not only in Attica, but across the country, citizens will gather to support the families of the victims. We want them to assist us in identifying and isolating those who might try to disrupt the peaceful protest or break up the gathering. That is precisely why the measures will be strict.”
She claimed that police have frequently observed individuals moving “alongside and within the crowd” before attacking officers and causing disturbances.
“Police officers will be present everywhere, even within the crowd, so that we can intervene in time,” she added.
Dimoglidou justified the increased police presence by citing recent incidents of “people attempting to provoke acts of violence” and stressed the need for vigilance on the day of the protests.
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