NEWS

Kikilias slams gov’t for failing to contain tension at migrant camps

Kikilias slams gov’t for failing to contain tension at migrant camps

Four days after a riot at a migrant reception on the eastern Aegean island of Leros, New Democracy’s shadow immigration minister Vassilis Kikilias on Monday criticised the left-led government for failing to contain growing tension at the country’s hot spots.

Kikilias, a former public order minister, accused government officials of playing a bystander role as supposedly pro-refugee activists are instigating migrants for their own gain.

The upheaval at the center on Leros, which is currently accommodating around 650 migrants, erupted late on Thursday evening amid growing frustration among migrants who want to continue their journey beyond Greece to Northern Europe.

Migrants reportedly hurled sticks and stones at police officers while some are said to have wielded axes. With help of coast guard officers, police managed to contain the crowd and restore calm by nightfall.

No serious injuries were reported but protesters are said to have caused damage to the facility.

Subscribe to our Newsletters

Enter your information below to receive our weekly newsletters with the latest insights, opinion pieces and current events straight to your inbox.

By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.