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Milan, violence and destruction during protests against rising living costs
Clashes and vandalism occurred in Milan and other Italian cities during protests against price hikes, resulting in numerous injuries and significant damage.
During protests against rising living costs, significant clashes were reported in Milan, particularly in Piazza Duomo and the San Babila district. According to sources, protesters stormed shops and vandalized windows, causing extensive damage estimated at over half a million euros.
Law enforcement reported 141 injuries and made numerous arrests, including at least 60 individuals, several of whom are minors. The conflict began when a group of protesters threw objects at the police, forcing officers to use water cannons and tear gas.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence and called for a summit to discuss public order, while Milan's Mayor Giuseppe Sala highlighted the lack of police presence on the ground. Opposition leader Elly Schlein urged not to justify the violent actions by associating them with the protest.
Tensions were not limited to Milan, extending to Turin and Bologna where similar activities were reported, including attacks on law enforcement and damage to shops. In Bologna, clashes occurred with hooded youths throwing stones at the police, who responded with water cannons and tear gas.
The demonstrations, initially aimed at denouncing the rise in the cost of living, escalated into violence, turning public squares into battlefields. Many of the protesters were very young and organized through social media, highlighting a new phenomenon of collective violence in such protest events.
Images post-clashes show the visual and material damage caused by these actions, with devastated shops and a militarized police presence to maintain public order. The situation continues to evolve, with authorities attempting to contain the protests and prevent further violence.