Christmas tree attacked by Greek rioters

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-21-2008 11:28

Demonstrators in Athens have attacked the city's new Christmas tree in Syntagma Square. The first tree was burned to the ground during the worst day of rioting in central Athens.

Smoke from tear gas shells billows as riot  police officers walk near Christmas  decorations during clashes in central Athens, late Saturday, Dec. 20, 2008.  (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

A crowd of about 150 rioters was confronted by dozens of police shortly after they threw garbage at the tree and hung rubbish bags on its branches. The resulting clash continued well into the night. Police removed at least two people from the scene before forcing the rest to leave the area.

Also in central Athens, a group of protesters threw petrol bombs into offices of the Economy Ministry, and set fire to cars nearby.

Athens has been gripped by violent protests for two weeks following the fatal police shooting of a 15-year-old boy.