In brief
In Bologna, a Moroccan-born man named Abderrahim Fakir died while being forcibly restrained by police, sparking widespread protests. On Monday night, several thousand residents marched for justice, while a smaller group clashed with police, injuring 64 officers. Authorities have opened a manslaughter investigation involving officers and medical staff present, and the case has drawn criticism from both the government and opposition politicians. Police union leaders defended their actions as proportional, while activists highlighted references to other cases of police custody deaths. The incident has intensified debate over law‑enforcement practices and civil rights in Italy.
Several thousand residents took to the streets on Monday night demanding justice for Fakir, with a smaller group later clashing with police into the night. The police union reported that 64 officers were injured during the unrest while an investigation into possible manslaughter was opened against the officers involved and medical staff at the scene.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence and called for a thorough investigation, stating that “nothing can justify violence against police.”
The incident began after a neighbour reported Fakir behaving erratically and kicking garage doors in the Pilastro neighbourhood. Police attempted to calm the situation but used pepper spray and pinned Fakir down, as shown in a video that circulated on Italian media. The video shows the officers tying his wrists and ankles and slapping him twice, leaving him unconscious when an ambulance arrived.
Family members expressed outrage, with Fakir’s sister describing the death as merciless and demanding truth. The mayor of Bologna called for a demonstration, but a smaller group of approximately 100 protesters later set two cars on fire and clashed with police, further damaging the situation.
Police proponents argued that the use of force was appropriate based on the footage, while critics, including opposition lawmakers, questioned the government’s support for police actions and highlighted earlier cases of deaths in custody such as Stefano Cucchi’s. The violence and investigations continue to fuel debate over law‑enforcement conduct in Italy.
