With emotion and respect, Thessaloniki commemorated today Monday the late policeman Giorgos Lyggeridis, who was murdered while on duty during incidents in Rentis.

The city paid tribute with the unveiling ceremony of his bust, which now adorns the park that bears his name in the fountain square, in the center of the city, between Ethnikis Amyni and Kamvounia streets.

The event started at 17:15 in the afternoon and marked the recognition of the sacrifice of Giorgos Lyggeridis, with Athanasios Lyggeridis, a relative of the deceased policeman, delivering a short memorial speech, recalling his contribution and dedication to the service and society.

Lyggeridis’ mother, deeply moved, declared that they exist “mixed emotions… Sadness that has been overwhelming us for two years and on the other hand we feel so much pride for this child. I think it is the first uniform to be placed in such a central point and part of the city. George will be a start. Let the whole world honor him as he deserves, let us all stand by this hero”he said.

The mayor of Thessaloniki, Stelios Angeloudis, during the unveiling ceremony of the bust of the deceased policeman Giorgos Lyggeridis, emphasized that the work will remain in the city center as a permanent symbol of bravery, self-sacrifice, devotion, respect and faith in principles, ideals and values. As he pointed out, naming the park after Lyggeridis is the minimum tribute to him and his sacrifice.

“The decision of the municipal council to give the name of the Hero to this park is the least recognition to George Lyggeridis, who fell in the line of duty, but also to the great family of the Hellenic Police”, said Mr. Angeloudis. At the same time, he emphasized that this space is intended to act as a point of reference for citizens and to awaken consciences, recalling the heroic example of the policeman.

Also present were the mother and father of Lyggeridis, the police leadership, the platoon in which he served, as well as representatives of the police unions.

The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths, a minute’s silence and the playing of the National Anthem, in a moment of collective remembrance and honor for a man who paid with his life for his devotion to duty.