MILAN: Violent clashes broke out between protesters and riot police in central Milan on Saturday, October 17, during demonstrations against rising living costs and government policies. Some protesters threw stones, paving blocks, fireworks and other objects at police, prompting officers to deploy tear gas and water cannons.
Protest Begins Peacefully, Turns Violent
- Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Piazza del Duomo, the square outside Milan’s famous Gothic cathedral. The demonstration initially proceeded peacefully before groups of masked protesters clashed with police.
- According to reports by Reuters and Associated Press, some demonstrators also set fire to makeshift barricades, damaged property and looted shops. Police attempted to disperse the crowds, while shops lowered their shutters and tourists moved away from the affected area.
- The central Duomo metro station was temporarily closed during the unrest.
Police Injured, Demonstrators Detained
- At least two police officers were reported injured, while approximately 50 demonstrators were detained, according to reports citing the Italian news agency LaPresse. Some reports also described injuries among protesters.
- The situation disrupted activity in central Milan, including the area around the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a well known shopping arcade.
Rising Prices and Public Services at the Centre of Protest
- The demonstrations reflected public frustration over rising living costs, inflation, low wages and concerns about public services. Protesters also expressed opposition to the policies of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government.
- The unrest was not limited to Milan. Police also used water cannons in Bologna, where seven arrests were reported following another protest that turned violent, according to the ANSA news agency.
Meloni Condemns Violence
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, stressing that peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right but attacks on police and destruction of property are unacceptable.
- Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala acknowledged that protesters had legitimate concerns but criticised the violence and damage caused during the clashes.
Wider Concerns Across Europe
- The unrest in Italy coincided with major demonstrations in France over rising living costs and deteriorating public services. Some French protests also escalated into clashes, looting and fires.
- The developments have renewed debate across Europe about inflation, living standards, public services and the right to peaceful protest.
Source: Reuters, Associated Press and reports citing Italian news agencies.
