Hundreds of soldiers sent to Milan as protesters march across Europe
MILAN (AP) — Italy deployed soldiers to Milan as the nation's fashion and finance capital braced for fresh protests on Saturday, one week after looting and clashes with police.
Italy sent an additional 500 soldiers to Milan as the city prepares for further protests this Saturday, one week following looting and clashes with police. Premier Giorgia Meloni announced stricter penalties for minors, who comprised a large portion of violent protesters. Protests are occurring in multiple European cities, from Tirana in Albania to Madrid in Spain, with issues ranging from pensions to housing, anti-war movements, education, and corruption.
In Milan, military vehicles and boarded-up luxury stores are present, supported by about 5,000 law enforcement personnel. Authorities use drones, checks at railway stations, rapid-response units, and online surveillance to monitor for potential calls to violence. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala expressed concern about a repeat of violence and supported the deployment of more soldiers.
Luxury boutiques within Milan’s fashion district, such as Omega, Tiffany, and Gucci, boarded up their windows with wooden planks. Rioters last weekend targeted stores, breaking in to steal sneakers, athletic wear, and sporting goods. Security measures are extended beyond the city center due to concerns protesters might move to other neighborhoods.
Valter Mazzetti, secretary-general of the Fsp police union, said soldiers can offer immediate reinforcements but cannot resolve staffing shortages. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto mentioned that the soldiers lack essential tools for public-order operations, only recently permitted to use plastic restraint ties in areas around train stations. They are not authorized to carry pepper spray or tasers.
Milan police claim last week's violence involved around 2,000 young protesters, many being second-generation Italians and foreign nationals. Over two days, police arrested 45 people, including 34 minors. Milan's welfare councilor Lamberto Bertolé stated that further investigation is required to understand the backgrounds and motives of the young individuals who participated in the looting.
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