Looting and Violent Protests in Italy... 271 Detained

220 Were Minors
Some Entrances to the Port of Naples Blocked

A total of 271 people were detained by police following violent protests and looting in Milan, Italy.

A tram passes a shattered storefront window in Milan, Italy, on the 19th (local time), after police clashed with protesters demonstrating against soaring prices (cost of living) and poor public services. Photo by Reuters-Yonhap News.

According to Yonhap News Agency, ANSA reported on the 19th (local time) that protesters were suspected of obstructing public officials in the performance of their duties, damaging property and looting. Of those detained, 220 were minors. Sixty were foreign nationals.

Authorities said 32 of those detained were arrested, while 28 were referred to prosecutors.

The previous day, anti-government protests were held in Milan over rising prices and deteriorating public services, among other issues. Police fired tear gas to disperse the crowds, while protesters countered by spraying fire extinguishers and setting off gunpowder. Protests also erupted in other cities, including Turin and Bologna, where clashes between protesters and police caused disruption.

An organization called the "October 17 Movement" said on social media that day, "We will continue protesting every Saturday until the thieving government falls."

As protests by truck drivers over high fuel prices also spread, some entrances to the Port of Naples in Italy were blocked that day. Concerns are growing that prolonged truck protests could disrupt the distribution of fresh produce to major cities.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said protesters had the "right" to take to the streets, but criticized violent protests as "unjustifiable."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.