Posted on May 20, 2016

Shocking Footage Shows Rioting Migrants Clash with Police at Refugee Camp

Vickiie Oliphant, Daily Express, May 20, 2016

Refugees pushed a wagon against a blockade, forcing officers to fire tear gas at rampaging crowds.

A massive brawl broke out, as four tents in the camp were set on fire and rocks and stones were thrown at the police.

Idomeni camp, on Greece’s northern border with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, is home to about 11,000 people.

Clashes in the camp are reportedly a regular occurrence as groups try to force themselves through the border and into more prosperous EU states.

Incidents began at 8:30 pm on Wednesday evening, when about a hundred migrants ran towards the police block, pushing a wagon or train cart to break through to the other side.

Riot squads were quick to respond, firing tear gas at the crowds as the fights worsened.

Most of the protestors were forced to leave the camp, heading for safety in nearby fields.

Hordes of refugees were affected by the police use of tear gas, including pregnant women and children, with those suffering from the physical effects of the gases filling up the only medical tent at the camp.

A police source said that at least three Greek police members were injured.

The number of injured remains unknown.

One volunteer working in the area said the incident is the most serious case of police use of chemicals seen in the region until now.