Thousands of police officers will deploy across central Athens on Saturday, as students and activists mark the 17th anniversary of the police killing of 16-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos, an event that remains a flashpoint for political unrest in Greece.
Major demonstrations are planned throughout the day to commemorate Grigoropoulos, who was shot dead by special police guard Epaminondas Korkoneas in Exarchia on Dec. 6, 2008. The incident sparked weeks of rioting and continues to shape the country's political landscape.
Authorities have announced strict security measures, including the closure of key metro stations and extensive road blocks.
Rally Schedule and Metro Closures Two main rallies are scheduled for the city center. A student march will gather at the Propylaea at noon, followed by a second demonstration at 6 p.m. At 9 p.m., activists will hold a vigil at the memorial site on the corner of Mesolongiou and Tzavella streets in Exarchia.
Police officials confirmed that the "Panepistimio" metro station will close at 9 a.m., followed by the "Syntagma" station at 11 a.m. Trains will pass through both stations without stopping. Traffic restrictions will be imposed gradually on major thoroughfares, including Panepistimiou Avenue, expanding around Omonia and Syntagma squares as crowds gather.
Police Appeal The Athens Police Headquarters (GADA) urged drivers to avoid the downtown area entirely on Saturday to prevent gridlock and ensure public safety.
The anniversary comes amid renewed debate over civil liberties and policing, with opposition parties referencing the 2008 tragedy in recent parliamentary clashes regarding law enforcement accountability.