Greek Policeman Shoots Guard Outside U.S. Embassy

He had also previously threatened another security guard with his weapon, the sources said.

A Greek police officer shot and seriously wounded a private security guard outside the U.S. ambassador's residence in Athens on Wednesday, less than two months after the police killing of a teenager sparked riots.

Police sources said the officer, who has been patrolling outside the residence for 13 years, was standing over the body when he was detained. The 31-year-old security guard was in a serious condition in hospital after being shot through the neck.

"We are reviewing the circumstances and consider the incident unfortunate," said a spokeswoman for the U.S. embassy, which stands next to the residence.

Police sources said the officer had in the past been reprimanded for urinating in his guard booth and being naked except for his underwear while on duty.

He had also previously threatened another security guard with his weapon, the sources said.

"The officer has given 10 different explanations for the incident," said one police official, who asked not to be identified. "It looks like he may have psychological problems."

The shooting is the latest embarrassment for Greece's police force, whose reputation was severely tarnished by December's shooting of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos. Thousands marched in protests on the streets of Athens, many of them chanting "Cops, Pigs, Killers".

Greek newspapers on Wednesday criticised a raid on an Athens lap dancing club in which police officers appeared to have paid for four lap dances before making any arrests.