Athens on high alert for protests marking anniversary of police shooting

The center of Athens is under heightened security on Friday as student marches and rallies are set to mark the 16th anniversary of the police shooting of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos. His death in 2008 triggered some of the most intense riots Greece had seen in decades.

A robust police force of 5,000 officers has been deployed across the city to deter potential unrest. According to reports from the state broadcaster ERT, this security detail mirrors the measures implemented for the November 17th commemorations of the 1973 Athens Polytechnic uprising.

The deployment includes riot police (MAT), motorcycle units (DRASI and DIAS), traffic police, and state security officers. Exarchia, a neighborhood known for frequent clashes during protests, will be under intensified patrols before, during, and after the march.

Specialized equipment, including water cannon...