Proposed changes to Greek police include new protest unit
A raft of proposals for changing the way the national police force operates includes the introduction of a special force to police public protests, with the riot squad being reserved only for the eventuality of violence.
The measure sees the new force being armed with a baton and gun and displaying proper identification badges, but not dressed in full protective gear or carrying tear gas.
It is one of dozens of proposals contained in a 40-page document presented by Alternate Minister for Citizens’ Protection Yiannis Panousis to Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras during the latter’s visit to the ministry on Monday.
The proposals also include the disbandment of the motorcycle-riding DIAS squad as well as a plan for merging various police services.
Panousis is due to meet with his predecessors Nikos Dendias, Michalis Chrysochoidis and Giorgos Floridis to discuss the changes he is considering.
