Italy deploys soldiers to Milan ahead of fresh weekend protests

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 13:20 · Archive

Italy has deployed 500 additional soldiers to Milan as the city prepares for protests one week after looting and clashes with police.

Italy deployed 500 additional soldiers to Milan on Saturday as the city braced for fresh protests, a week after looting and clashes with police erupted in the fashion and finance capital. The soldiers joined hundreds already stationed there and approximately 5,000 police and other law enforcement personnel.

Authorites imposed multiple security measures ahead of the protests. Shops, including luxury boutiques and major retailers, boarded up their windows. Surveillance drones were deployed, railway stations were subject to checks, and rapid-response units were positioned. Officials expressed concern that protesters could move into other neighbourhoods to avoid heavily policed areas in the city centre.

Premier Giorgia Meloni announced the deployment alongside tougher penalties for minors, who police said made up a large part of the violent protesters the previous weekend. Rioters had targeted stores selling sneakers, athletic wear and sporting goods on streets around the city's central Duomo square. Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala expressed support for the military deployment, stating concern about a repeat of violence.

How it is being reported

• Soldiers patrol Milan streets as shops board up ahead of protestsMilan is on alert ahead of expected protests, with additional soldiers deployed and shops boarding up their windows a week after looting and clashes with police.Euronews · 24 Oct, 13:06
• Italy sends hundreds of soldiers to Milan for protest, one of many planned across EuropeItaly has deployed soldiers to Milan as the city braces for fresh protests following last week's riotsIndependent World · 24 Oct, 11:27

In this story: Italy · Milan · Giorgia Meloni · Giuseppe Sala

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