Police officers protest in Corfu about injury of 31-year-old in Renti

A uniformed protest was held in Corfu outside the Police Headquarters after the government's measures on fan violence announced earlier today by government spokesman P. Marinakis, following the serious incident that took place days ago outside the sports facilities in Renti.

The protest is part of a nationwide protest called by the Panhellenic Federation of Police Officers for protest rallies at the local Police Headquarters, following the serious injury of their 31-year-old colleague outside the "Melina Mercouri" indoor gymnasium in Renti.

Members of the Corfu Police Employees Union and the South Corfu Police Pensioners Association expressed their opposition to the violence, calling for no more victims and no more criminal behaviour.

The President of Corfu Police Employees Union Nikos Bozikis criticised in his statements the indifference of the state, stressing that it has exposed an institution called the Police.

"Unfortunately it has not protected us. Our colleague's life is in danger and even if he lives, his life will not be the same as it was. There are moral perpetrators for this attack. Yes, it was carried out by an 18-year-old, but there are others behind him. There are hidden interests, which unfortunately, by order of the state, we also serve. While we managed to get out of the sports areas through struggles, the current government is imposing the presence of the police in the sports areas. In other words, at a time when Greek citizens needs security and protection, the Police are absent to be inside the sports areas and protect the interests of the sports clubs. Thus it contradicts what our duty requires," said Mr. Bozikis amongst other things.

There was a great turnout at the peaceful gathering, while it was held without obstructing the movement of vehicles outside the Corfu Police Headquarters, as it was limited to the entrance and the yard.

Photo: Enimerosi

MARIA BAZDRIYIANNI