Tensions flared and arrests were made at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on Thursday afternoon when police intervened inside the old Philosophy building to “flush out” the rector.

The incident began when students staged a protest in front of the university’s administration building, following the recent malfunction of an elevator. About 70 students made their way to the first floor of the old Faculty of Philosophy, where the rector, Haralambos Fidas, was located.

Initially, the rector attempted to engage in dialogue with the students, but the situation escalated quickly. Insults were hurled, and verbal confrontations erupted, preventing him from leaving safely. As a result, the Hellenic Police were called in for assistance.

Members of the IPKE and riot police units intervened in the building, leading to hand-to-hand clashes between some protesters and the police officers trying to escort the rector out.

While some arrests were reported, the exact number has yet to be confirmed. With help from the National Police, the rector managed to escape, and the situation eventually calmed down.

Students later gathered at the entrance of the Faculty of Philosophy on National Defense Street, chanting slogans against the police.