Protests and Clashes Erupt in Turin Over Closure of Activist Base

On Saturday night, more than 100 police officers were injured in chaotic scenes in Turin as protests erupted against the closure of a far-left activist center. A fire was reported, and clashes between protesters and law enforcement intensified.

These nationwide demonstrations came in response to the eviction of activists from the Askatasna Social Center, a site occupied for nearly three decades that had become a focal point for leftist movements in the city. The local government had previously allowed the occupation of city-owned buildings but ended this agreement after allegations surfaced that activists linked to Askatasna vandalized the offices of the Liberal newspaper La Stampa over its coverage of the Gaza war.

Organizers estimated that around 50,000 individuals participated in the Turin protests, initially maintaining a peaceful demeanor. However, as darkness fell, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.

According to reports, government broadcaster RAI noted that hooded protesters clashed violently with the police, throwing bottles and other projectiles. In one instance, a police officer was attacked by a group of militants who punched and kicked him before using a hammer. Additionally, some protesters set fire to trash bins and police vehicles, while the authorities responded with tear gas and water cannons.

In the aftermath, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the actions of the protesters, stating that the violent acts were not those of peaceful demonstrators but rather of individuals hostile to the state. She expressed solidarity with the injured officers and journalists and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting law enforcement in the face of such violence.

Meloni remarked that the state would not yield to the actions of “pseudo-revolutionaries” and reaffirmed support for those following the rules of civil society.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini urged for new legislation to better protect police officers and suggested bail requirements for those involved in the riots. He stressed that while demonstrations are legal, acts of destruction against cities and assault on officers are unacceptable.

Minister of Administration Paolo Zangrillo voiced his anger over the events, indicating that the threshold for acceptable behavior had long been crossed. He called for accountability, not just for the offenders but also for institutional responsibilities.