Immigrant clashes in Athens injure 13

31/08/2008

ATHENS, Greece -- Thirteen people were injured early Saturday (August 30th) in clashes between immigrants in downtown Athens. Witnesses say hundreds of passers-by were forced to flee the region of the Omonia Square where African street vendors armed with knives, axes and metal rods fought for territory. One police officer was hurt in the clashes and was forced to shoot his gun, injuring one immigrant and one passer-by. The clashes ended early in the morning after special police forces were deployed. A total of 56 people were arrested. (BTA, Kathimerini - 30/08/08)