Arrests, clashes as Athens among latest cities to see protests against ‘Innocence of Muslims’ video
More than 40 people were arrested in clashes between police and protesters in the Greek capitalAthensduring a demo against the “Innocence of Muslims” online amateur video, while at Korydallos jail in the city, there was unrest when Muslim prisoners refused to return to their cells after a protest against the video.
Athenswas among the latest round of cities on September 23 2012 to see a protest against the video, which has sparked outrage among Muslim communities around the world. The Greek protest, in which police intervened to stop an attempt by marchers to reach theUnited Statesembassy, also expressed anger against cartoons in a French publication lampooning Islam’s Prophet Muhammed. About 700 people took part in the protest march against the video.
Clashes occurred when protesters threw water bottles, stones and shoes at police, who responded with teargas, Reuters said. Calm returned when demonstrators interrupted the protest to pray.
At the jail, firefighters extinguished a blaze after Muslim prisoners set fire to mattresses and sheets. By early September 24, the situation at the prison was reported to be under control.
(Photo, of the Pasa Dzami Mosque, now a museum, at Monastiraki, Athens: Badseed)
