Athens

The date of Merkel’s arrival was announced by the deputy government spokeswoman, Ulrike Demer.

Those who are trapped in the city centre due to protests react with consternation and society remains indifferent.

It is inconceivble for the centre of a capital to be handed over to criminals.

The general secretary of Greek Police Special Guards, Stratos Mavroidakos, said that initial reports indicated that the face and hands of the policemen were injured.