Police arrest 38 individuals at Thessaloniki campus following riots

Police arrested 38 people during an early morning operation at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on Wednesday, following a crackdown on individuals remaining on campus after authorized hours. The arrests at the Thessaloniki campus came weeks after violent riots on February 7, when masked youths attacked police with petrol bombs during a campus party. University authorities have implemented strict access controls, prohibiting individuals from staying on the premises after 10 p.m. unless engaged in official university business.

The overnight police operation involved dozens of officers, including riot police units, who detained the individuals for allegedly disrupting university operations. According to authorities, those arrested were found on the campus grounds late at night in violation of the recently imposed curfew regulations.

Thessaloniki Campus Violence Prompts Increased Security

The police crackdown follows widespread violence that erupted on February 7, when a party on the university grounds escalated into confrontations with law enforcement. During that incident, youths attending the event attacked police officers stationed outside the campus with petrol bombs and other projectiles. More than 300 suspected rioters were detained at the time, though authorities did not proceed with arrests during the initial response.

The February riots highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding campus security and access policies at Greek universities. However, the recent arrests mark a shift in enforcement strategy, with police now actively detaining individuals found violating the nighttime restrictions.

University Access Restrictions Under Scrutiny

The implementation of the 10 p.m. curfew at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki represents part of broader efforts to regulate campus access and prevent unauthorized gatherings. University authorities have established clear parameters requiring individuals to demonstrate legitimate academic or administrative reasons for remaining on campus after hours. Additionally, the policy aims to prevent the type of uncontrolled gatherings that led to the February violence.

Greek universities have historically maintained relatively open campuses, with limited security presence. In contrast, recent incidents have prompted administrators to reconsider traditional access policies and implement stricter control measures. The balance between maintaining academic freedom and ensuring campus security has become a contentious issue across the country’s higher education institutions.

Implications for Student Rights and Campus Policy

The arrests at the Thessaloniki campus have raised questions about enforcement approaches and student rights. Meanwhile, critics argue that blanket curfews may infringe on legitimate academic activities and student life, particularly for those engaged in late-night research or study sessions. Supporters of the restrictions maintain that such measures are necessary to prevent unauthorized activities and protect campus infrastructure.

The contrast between the initial handling of the February riots—where hundreds were detained but none arrested—and the current enforcement approach suggests evolving protocols. According to observers, authorities appear to be taking a firmer stance on campus violations following the earlier violence.

The increased police presence on university grounds has sparked debate about the appropriate role of law enforcement in academic settings. Additionally, the incidents at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki may influence policy decisions at other Greek universities facing similar challenges with campus security and access control.

Authorities have not yet announced whether the 38 individuals arrested will face formal charges or what penalties they might encounter. The university administration is expected to review its access policies in the coming weeks, though no timeline for potential adjustments has been confirmed.