Claims that Greek police officers robbed, pushed back Syrian refugees to be probed

Authorities in Greece are investigating a series of allegations that Syrian refugees who entered the country by land from Turkey were robbed and forced back across the border by Greek police.

A judicial official said Friday that Thessaloniki prosecutor Lefteris Michailidis has ordered the police internal affairs squad to investigate more than 20 complaints forwarded by human rights groups. The official spoke on condition of anonymity.

The refugees claimed the attacks took place earlier this year in the northeastern Evros region, where Greece and Turkey are separated by a river that can be easily crossed in the summer. They said Greek police stole their money and belongings before pushing them back across the river.

Greece is the main gateway for people from the Middle East and Africa seeking a better life in Europe. Most enter by sea.

[AP]