Protesters with placards reading “We say No to fascism” on Wednesday gathered outside Limassol Assize Court as the trial of 13 suspects of racist attacks on the city’s waterfront opened with the first hearing set for November 6. Only a procedural judicial process took place on Wednesday morning.
Innocent bystanders and multi-ethnic shops on the waterfront were targeted by far-right anti-migrants in early September as some 200 far-right protesters gathered at the Molos area for an anti-immigrant rally.
Soon enough it had become an almost war-like scene, after some broke off from the pack and attacked innocent bystanders and multi-ethnic shops on the waterfront.
Many rioters were described to be wearing balaclavas and face coverings to remain concealed, as they carried out attacks. Police managed to restore order but not soon enough and a small number of arrests were made.
One anti-fascist protester outside the Court told journalists: “They are not innocent. The fascists should be sentenced, we do not forget fascism”.
A strong police force was present both inside and outside the Assize Court to maintain order and prevent violent incidents and disturbances.
