In the northern city of Thessaloniki, Greece, nine individuals have been remanded in custody and are set to face trial on Monday following allegations of harassment and threats against two 21-year-old transgender individuals. The incident occurred on Saturday night in Aristotelous Square, the main square of the city.

Upon appearing before a prosecutor on Sunday, the nine accused persons were ordered to be detained pending trial. Additionally, twelve other individuals, all minors, were provisionally released, awaiting trial on the same charges in a juvenile court.

The charges brought against the accused include abuse with bigoted intent. Moreover, two of the adults have been charged with assault for allegedly throwing bottles at the transgender persons. Fortunately, the victims sustained no serious injuries.

The incident unfolded when the accused individuals began taunting and verbally abusing the two transgender individuals. In an attempt to escape the hostile crowd, the victims sought refuge in a nearby restaurant, where some of the harassers unsuccessfully tried to gain entry. Prompt police intervention resulted in the victims being safely escorted away, while the suspects were immediately detained.

While the investigation progresses, law enforcement authorities are actively searching for any additional individuals involved in the incident. The police have expressed the need to hold all responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Politicians from across the spectrum have widely condemned the incident, highlighting the need for greater recognition and protection of the rights of transgender individuals in Greece. It is worth noting that Greece recently legalized same-sex marriage and granted full parental rights to same-sex couples, a decision that, unsurprisingly, faced backlash primarily from the Orthodox church and, to a lesser extent, from far-right factions.

As the trial commences on Monday, it is hoped that justice will be served, sending a strong message against discrimination and hate crimes targeting transgender individuals. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive society that values and respects the rights and dignity of all its members.