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Violence erupts during Milan Olympic protests
Italian police detained six individuals on Saturday after clashes broke out with demonstrators in Milan, a key host city for the Winter Olympics. Thousands gathered to oppose the Games, citing concerns over living costs and environmental impact.
Protesters clash with authorities
Demonstrators hurled stones and set off fireworks, prompting police to deploy water cannons. The unrest follows stricter protest laws enacted after a violent demonstration in Turin last weekend, where over 100 officers were injured, according to government reports.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the protesters, labeling them "enemies of Italy" for tarnishing the country's image during the global event. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini called those involved in the clashes "criminals" and praised new security measures for enabling stronger police action.
New security laws spark controversy
A fast-tracked security package, approved on Thursday, permits police to detain suspected agitators for up to 12 hours before protests to prevent disorder. Critics argue the measures are overly repressive.
The Turin protest, initially peaceful, escalated when armed groups attacked officers. One assailant used a hammer, an act Meloni described as attempted murder. Over 30 arrests were made.
Protesters voice Olympic concerns
Many demonstrators in Milan marched peacefully, criticizing the Games as environmentally and socially unsustainable. Francesca Missana, a protester, told AFP the Olympics had "outlived their relevance."
"These Games were sold as sustainable and cost-neutral, but billions were spent on roads instead of protecting the mountains," said organizer Alberto di Monte.
AFP
Railway sabotage disrupts travel
Separately, suspected sabotage caused chaos on northern Italy's rail network. A fire damaged infrastructure between Bologna and Venice, while severed cables and an explosive device were discovered near tracks.
Near Pesaro, a track switch was set ablaze, and near Bologna, electric cables were cut. Authorities found a rudimentary explosive device by the tracks. Bologna's central station, a major transit hub, was heavily affected.
Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, who also oversees railways, dismissed the incidents as isolated, insisting they would not overshadow Italy's global reputation. Rail operator RFI reported services had returned to normal.
Olympics proceed across multiple venues
The Winter Games, running until February 22, span locations from Milan to Alpine resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo, Predazzo, and Bormio. Despite the unrest, organizers remain focused on delivering the event.
