Greece: Mining compound attacked

On Sunday morning a group of 40-50 people raided the compound of the mining company Hellenic Gold in Skouries, northern Greece, and set fire to some vehicles and equipment. The raid, which caused a substantial amount of damage, was another act in the continuing resistance to the environmentally destructive gold mines in this area.

During the early hours the group broke into the compound, restrained the guards and poured flammable material around the area before setting it alight. Around a dozen vehicles and some equipment were destroyed in the subsequent blaze. The group then withdrew, blocking the entrance as they went. Police later detained 33 people but all were released. However a 54 year old local resident has been arrested with police suspecting him of involvement in the raid.

The minister of Public Order Nikos Dendias condemned the raid:

''...we all have an obligation to ensure the possibility of foreign investment in the country. It is known that this is the only way to deal with the huge, dramatic problem of unemployment "

Whist Katerina Inglessi an MP from SYRIZA, the left opposition, urged people to:

''..show restraint and composure to the provocations of the company and Troika government who are looking for excuses to slander the people's movements''

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This is not the first act of opposition to the gold mine at Skouries. Clashes are common between police and protesters opposed to the damage the mine will inflict on this area of natural beauty and historical importance. Attacks on mining vehicles and equipment have also occurred in the past. Opposition to the mine has been organised for many months by local residents and widespread support has been shown by demonstrations in Thessaloniki and Athens.