Twenty-eight arrests, 43 people reported to authorities and 141 officers injured. That is the toll from the clashes that took place on 17 October in Milan, Bologna and Turin. A total of 197 people were identified, while damages estimated between Milan and Bologna amount to at least one million euros overall.
In Milan, controversy has erupted over how the demonstrations were managed. Mayor Giuseppe Sala believes the forces deployed were insufficient to contain the violent fringe, particularly in Piazza Duomo: “yesterday it seemed like a lot of them against very few of us.” The mayor is also calling for a clearer distinction between peaceful demonstrators and those intent on wrecking the city.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has rejected the criticism, accusing Sala of looking to blame institutions rather than those responsible for the violence. He defended the conduct of police officers, citing the rules of engagement and the need to limit the use of force.
Sala responded by pointing out that he had already condemned the clashes, urging the minister to avoid personal attacks while reaffirming his willingness to cooperate.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called a meeting on public order for 19 October. Piantedosi has pledged that minors involved in the violence will also face prosecution.
