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The panhellenic farmers' protest degenerated into serious clashes between participants and riot police. The rallies began at 11:00 this morning at Syntagma Square in Athens. Farmers are protesting against the government plans for tax and social security hikes mounting to almost 52% between them.

Photo: iefimerida.gr

Tensions began when groups of farmers tried to reach the courtyard of the Greek Parliament, while pelting police with oranges, both wild and on-farm manufactured. In response, security forces began spraying farmers with tear gas and firing stun grenades in an attempt to push them back.

According to police and protest organisers, more than 9,000 farmers and breeders throughout the country were involved.

Photo: iefimerida.gr

Some of them handed oranges to passers-by, while others had even taken their lambs along to take part in the protest.

Photos: iefimerida.gr

Later on, farmers were joined by open market stallholders, which held a protest rally in Vathy square.