Athens, Greece — A violent disruption at a student-organized “Career Days” event Wednesday evening has intensified concerns about safety on university campuses in Greece. The incident unfolded shortly before 8 p.m. at the Athens University Law School, where a panel of guest speakers was addressing students about professional opportunities.
Reports indicate that five individuals, wearing hoods, forcibly entered the building, launching a chaotic assault in front of students and faculty members. This attack occurred during an intermission of the event, which aimed to foster career development for attendees.
Eyewitnesses described a swift and organized raid. Among those present was a graduate student who attempted to block the intruders from entering the main hall, which was filled with students, including several pregnant attendees, families, and elderly individuals. The attackers assaulted him with a fire extinguisher and subsequently pushed him down a staircase, resulting in serious injuries. He was later transported by ambulance to Red Cross Hospital.
Additionally, a faculty member sustained minor injuries while trying to shield the student from harm. An eyewitness, who is also a university professor, recounted the alarming moment of the attack. He stated that several colleagues had been invited to speak when the assailants struck without prior warning.
The professor recalled, “I have seen many things in university settings, but nothing like this. The group came up the stairs quickly, first spraying us with fire extinguishers before attempting to invade the room where mostly female students were gathered. This was a frightening scene.”
Another student intervened to help secure the door, but he was attacked and injured. The professor highlighted the gravity of the situation, saying, “He was lucky to escape with his life.”
Witnesses noted that the attackers left without uttering a word, sparking speculation about their motives. It appeared to be an unprovoked attack rather than a politically motivated intervention, as seen in other campus disruptions.
“Blood was on the floor, and fear permeated the air. People were terrified, and a pregnant woman nearly fainted,” the professor added. Concerns were raised about the delayed response from police, with many feeling a lack of preparedness exacerbated an already chaotic situation.
This shocking incident has precipitated a significant backlash within the academic community, as students and faculty alike have expressed growing dissatisfaction with current security measures on campus. Many are now demanding immediate action to improve safety protocols and protect the well-being of everyone within university spaces.
As authorities continue to investigate the attack, no arrests have been made thus far. The call for enhanced security has grown louder, as the university grapples with the implications of this unprecedented act of violence.