Security measures have been expanded in Italy ahead of demonstrations organized against the rising cost of living, low wages, defense spending, and government policies. Following violent clashes between protesters and police in Milan last weekend, authorities have raised the security level in major cities due to concerns that new incidents may occur.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government has ordered the deployment of 500 additional soldiers to Milan to support existing security forces in the city. It was reported that hundreds of additional soldiers were deployed across the country on Saturday, with intensive security preparations made particularly in Milan, Rome, Turin, and Naples.
During the events in Milan on October 17-18, vandalism, looting, and clashes with security forces occurred in the city center, causing damage to numerous businesses and public spaces. Police stated that approximately 2,000 young people participated in the previous events and that a total of 45 people, 34 of whom were minors, were detained.
SEARCHES AND NEW SECURITY MEASURES
As part of an investigation into the violence that occurred last weekend, Italian police conducted searches at more than 150 addresses in Milan, Monza, and approximately 20 other cities on Saturday morning. It was reported that the searches targeted individuals suspected of being involved in the incidents, including students and minors.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi argued that the previous incidents might have been coordinated. Authorities have also begun monitoring messages shared in online groups ahead of the new demonstrations. As part of the security plan, drone-assisted surveillance, checks at train stations, and rapid response teams have been activated.
The newly formed "October 17 Movement," which is associated with the organization of the protests, announced that previously announced gathering points have been canceled and that new meeting locations will be disclosed shortly before the marches. While it was noted that this decision complicates security preparations, police issued warnings against spontaneous actions that could develop in different cities.
In Rome, protesters are gathering for a nationwide demonstration under the slogan "Keep Italy out of war" against military intervention and rising defense spending. In Turin, students and activist groups called for marches against rearmament, fuel prices, and the cost of living, demanding easier access to housing, education, and healthcare services.
While economic hardships and price hikes are being protested in Naples, thousands of people are expected to join a march in Castel Volturno, near Naples, against a planned center for the detention and repatriation of migrants. Religious organizations, aid groups, immigrant associations, and agricultural workers are also supporting this action.
Demonstrations are also planned in Genoa, Bologna, Florence, Padua, and Verona. While the Meloni government condemned the violence and announced that tougher measures would be taken against attacks on police and businesses, the protests have brought debates on economic inequality, social exclusion, and public order policies back to the forefront in the country.
News Source: 12punto
