Gang of youths go on rampage

A group of 50-150 youths armed with iron bars smashed the windows of cars, banks and other businesses on Skoufa Street in the upscale Kolonaki shopping district of Athens on the afternoon of 13 March 2009. The youths dispersed leaflets calling for the release of a youth arrested for a 2007 bank robbery. Police officers responded by firing tear gas, but no arrests or injuries were reported. Approximately 50 shops, several banks, 20 cars and two ATMs were damaged. Security patrols were increased in the area following the incident, and several streets were closed to traffic.