Demonstrations and clashes in Italy, nearly 5,000 identified and 371 detained.

A day of protests swept across Italy, recording moments of tension and clashes in various cities such as Turin, Bologna, Rome, and Florence. The final public order report speaks of almost five thousand people identified and 371 arrests, of which 110 are minors. In some squares, like in Turin and Bologna, clashes occurred between demonstrators and law enforcement.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi commented on the events, stating that the 'violent individuals have been isolated' and that 'there is no room for those who act with impunity.' He reiterated that the freedom to demonstrate is a precious right, but it must be exercised in respect of the law. Some center-left mayors have requested a meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss responses to the cost of living crisis.

The protests on Saturday, October 24th, fit into a context of growing social unrest linked to the high cost of living and economic difficulties. In recent years, Italy has seen an increase in street demonstrations, often organized through social channels and online pages that gather thousands of followers. On October 17th, a previous wave of marches had already generated unrest in several cities, leading to the identification of Youssef Siher, believed to be the creator of the 'October 17th Movement' page on Telegram and Instagram, followed by approximately 150,000 people.

The situation has progressively deteriorated: from the initial peaceful protests, it escalated to episodes of urban guerrilla warfare with damage and injuries, as happened in Milan, Bologna, and Turin in recent weeks. Law enforcement has intensified checks and searches, culminating on Saturday with thousands of identifications. This climate of tension reflects a growing polarization in Italian society between the right to demonstrate and the needs of public order, with particular attention to the involvement of many minors in violent actions.