Italian Riots Lead to Over 270 Detentions in Milan

On Monday, Italian authorities apprehended more than 270 individuals following two days of unrest described as a “guerrilla war” in Milan, according to local news sources.

Reports indicate that about 80 percent of those detained are minors, with at least 60 being migrants. Some of these individuals are now facing official charges, while many of the detainees remain in preventive custody as of Monday morning.

The unrest began Saturday, escalating into the second day of violent protests. Thousands participated, and the clashes were reminiscent of chaos seen recently in France.

While the first day of riots was mainly focused around Piazza del Duomo, right in front of Milan’s historic Cathedral, the protests the following day spread to other areas including Piazza Castello and Via Torino.

Estimates suggest around 2,000 protesters were involved. They caused significant damage, demolishing outdoor seating and vandalizing shops. Reports mention looting incidents, including an assault on a supermarket in Via Torino.

Police responded with riot control units, employing water cannons and armored vehicles to regain control of the situation by late afternoon. At the last update, 28 individuals—including 15 migrants and 23 minors—faced unspecified charges. Authorities are pushing for pre-trial detention for at least five young adults, aged 18 to 20, for charges like aggravated resistance, vandalism, and looting.

Sunday’s riots left at least 14 police officers injured. One officer, Angelo De Simone, recounted being struck by a stone thrown by a protester. Despite the injury, he continued to coordinate police efforts, emphasizing the unprecedented level of violence he encountered.

Reports indicate that De Simone required four stitches for his head injury but returned to work on Monday.

As for the rioters, there are threats of ongoing violence against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, with a movement named after the events of October 17 calling for “permanent mobilization” every Saturday afternoon until the government is overthrown. The group also plans to extend its protests to cities like Rome, Turin, and Florence.

In response, Meloni has scheduled an urgent security meeting to consider enhanced security measures following the riots. Discussions will reportedly include expanding police and military presence as part of Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini’s “Safe Streets” program.

Additionally, the government is contemplating a decree that would permit the detention of minors and increase military presence in Milan. Salvini is advocating for stricter penalties, including automatic prosecution of anyone who assaults a public official, which could involve a prison term of up to five years, alongside hefty fines for offenders. He also proposes bans on gatherings that foster group violence and wants to introduce “group vandalism” as a criminal offense.