Athens in Chaos as Rioters Clash with Police Following Train Bombing

Athens was set ablaze after violent riots broke out, with protesters throwing petrol bombs during clashes with police. Over 70 people were arrested as chaos erupted in the Exarchia district just after midnight.

Around 50 rioters targeted a police station, launching Molotov cocktails and fireworks. At least 21 vehicles were destroyed, and several shops, homes, and motorbikes were torched as terrified locals looked on.

Greek authorities reported the violence began near Kallidromiou and E. Benaki streets, with police responding using tear gas.

The riots followed a bomb explosion outside Hellenic Train’s headquarters on Friday night. A warning call had alerted local media, claiming a device in a backpack would explode within 30 to 40 minutes. The blast caused minor damage but no injuries.

This unrest comes amid ongoing anger over a 2023 train crash that killed 57 people. The tragedy, involving a passenger and freight train on the same track, sparked nationwide protests and political fallout.

More than 40 individuals have been charged in connection with the disaster. A trial is expected later this year. Meanwhile, former officials, including a junior minister and the ex-CEO of Hellenic Train, are facing investigations for their roles in the aftermath.

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