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Top cops in Greece are forced out over aid to fascists

Government begins probe into police ties to Golden Dawn

Five senior Greek police officers were replaced on Monday after the government ordered urgent inquiries into links between the far-right Golden Dawn party and the police and military.

The Public Order Ministry said the heads of the police's special forces, internal security, organised crime, firearms and explosives, and rapid-response motorcycle divisions had been moved to other posts pending an investigation into reports that police provided the fascist party with assistance in criminal activity.

Golden Dawn won nearly 7 per cent of the vote in general elections last year but is currently the subject of a criminal investigation following the murder last week of anti-fascist rapper Pavlos Fyssas.

A 45-year-old man, who authorities say has identified himself as a Golden Dawn volunteer, has been arrested for the murder and remains in custody.

The government is seeking the prosecution of members of the far-right party under the country's anti-terrorism law and is preparing a legislative amendment that would see Golden Dawn's state campaign funding suspended if its MPs are accused of serious offences.

It describes the party as neonazi and says it is behind a growing number of brutal street attacks on immigrants.

Monday's action was taken "to ensure the absolute objectivity" of the police inquiry, the government said.

Two less-senior officers were also replaced and a third was suspended. The regional police commanders of southern and central Greece resigned, citing personal reasons.

Separately, the Defence Ministry ordered its own inquiry into reports that Golden Dawn members were receiving informal training from serving and reservist special forces officers.

Golden Dawn leader Nikos Michaloliakos described the claims of paramilitary training and the government allegations linking his party to Mr Fyssas's murder as "monstrous lies."

Its popularity had risen since last year's election but a survey in a conservative newspaper on Monday found a sharp dip in support over the past week from 8.3 to 5.8 per cent.

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