Occupied since 2002, the 'Evangelismos' building in Crete has served as a hub for political and grassroots initiatives, frequently drawing police crackdowns. A year and a half after the last police raid on the squat in 2023, which left one member seriously injured, the Hellenic Police (ELAS) returned to the site on the morning of 22 April, 2025, conducting another operation. Six individuals were arrested, and three others were detained for questioning.

According to public broadcaster ERT, early this morning, riot police forces stormed the Evangelismos building. Inside, they found six individuals, who were arrested on charges of disturbing the peace and violating weapons laws. Additionally, three people were taken in for questioning and were brought to the Heraklion Crime Investigation Unit, which is leading the investigation.

At 9:00 AM, a brief statement was posted on Indymedia: “The eviction of the Evangelismos Squat in Heraklion, Crete, is taking place right now. JUST LIKE BEFORE, WE WILL RESIST. NOT ONE STEP BACK.”

It is important to note that the Evangelismos building has been under occupation since 2002, hosting a wide array of political and cultural events. It also serves as a focal point for local social struggles. In 2023, there was another eviction by police forces, during which the University of Crete, which owns the property, had sealed the doors and windows to prevent the squat from being reoccupied. During that raid, one individual was severely injured in an attempt to escape. This person was among those present in the squat during the raid and tried to flee via the roof, where they fell.

According to a statement from the police, during today’s search, a variety of items were found and confiscated from the squat, including wooden sticks, a large number of motorcycle helmets, fire extinguishers, numerous anti-asphyxiation masks, containers with flammable liquids, and makeshift shields.

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