**Title: Italy’s Meloni Condemns Protesters After Clashes in Bologna**
**Bologna, Italy** – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has publicly condemned demonstrators following violent protests in Bologna that erupted after the death of Abderrahim Fakir, a 42-year-old Moroccan man, who died while under police restraint. The protests, which began on the night of July 20, 2026, resulted in clashes between demonstrators and riot police, leaving dozens of officers injured.
Fakir's death occurred when police were called to address a situation involving a man behaving aggressively and damaging property. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked significant public outcry, leading to protests that escalated into violence. During the demonstrations, protesters reportedly threw firecrackers, bottles, and chairs at police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. According to the Italian Coordination of Police Officers, 56 officers sustained injuries during the confrontations.
In a statement made on July 21, Meloni pledged that the circumstances of Fakir’s death would be investigated thoroughly. However, she criticized the protesters for what she described as a desire for "confrontation" rather than seeking the "truth." Meloni stated, “Those who chose to use this incident as a pretext to lay waste to the city, attack officers and spread violence … were not seeking the truth: they were seeking confrontation.”
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for accountability, asserting that “any responsibilities” must be determined with “the utmost rigour” and that the pursuit of truth should be conducted “without prejudice and without leniency toward anyone.”
Footage of Fakir’s final moments, which has circulated widely on social media, shows him face down on the ground while being restrained by two officers. In the video, he can be heard calling for help and stating that he cannot breathe before becoming unresponsive. This footage has drawn comparisons to the high-profile case of George Floyd, who was killed by police in Minneapolis in 2020, igniting global protests against police violence.
In response to the incident, prosecutors have launched an investigation, which has reignited discussions in Italy regarding the use of force during arrests. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi expressed his confidence that the inquiry would clarify the facts surrounding the incident. He also noted that police officers should be afforded the same “presumption of innocence” as any other citizen.
The incident has prompted varied reactions across Italy’s political landscape. Members of the ruling right-wing coalition have defended the actions of the police involved, while opposition figures have criticized the government's response and accused it of fostering an environment conducive to violence. Centre-left legislator Francesco Boccia cautioned against adopting an “ICE model” of policing, referencing the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, which has faced scrutiny for its treatment of protesters.
Barbara Spinelli, a lawyer who had previously met Fakir when he applied to renew his residency permit, described him as “a very kind, well-educated, respectful person” who was concerned about the possibility of being expelled from Italy, despite having lived there legally.
As the investigation continues, the events in Bologna have highlighted ongoing tensions regarding policing practices and the treatment of marginalized communities in Italy. The government’s handling of the situation will likely remain a focal point of political debate in the coming weeks.