RismadarVoice Reporters, July 21, 2026
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for a thorough investigation into the death of a man during an arrest in the northern city of Bologna, while condemning violent clashes that erupted during protests over the incident.
The victim, Abderrahim Fakir, a Moroccan-born resident, died on Sunday after police responded to reports of a man allegedly behaving aggressively and damaging a vehicle in Bologna’s Pilastro district.
In a statement posted on social media, Meloni stressed that authorities must establish the facts surrounding the incident through an impartial and comprehensive investigation.
She said any individual found responsible should be held accountable, insisting that the truth must be pursued without bias or favour.
The prime minister also denounced violence that broke out during a protest in central Bologna on Monday night, where demonstrators clashed with security forces.
According to the police union COISP, 56 police officers were injured during the unrest.
Italian media reported that some protesters threw bottles, firecrackers and chairs at police officers, prompting security personnel to respond with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd.
Meloni accused those responsible for the violence of exploiting the tragedy to provoke disorder rather than seeking justice.
The incident has sparked nationwide debate after a video widely circulated on social media appeared to show Fakir lying face down on the ground while two police officers restrained him.
In the footage, he is heard repeatedly calling for help and saying he could not breathe before eventually becoming motionless.
The video has intensified public concern over police conduct and the use of force during arrests.
Prosecutors have since opened a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Fakir’s death.
Authorities said officers initially attempted to calm him before using pepper spray and restraining him after he allegedly became aggressive while they tried to place him under arrest.
Bologna police confirmed that body-camera recordings from the officers involved have been secured and will be handed over to investigators as part of the inquiry. The case has generated strong political reactions across Italy.
Opposition parties have demanded full accountability and transparency in the investigation, while members of the governing coalition have urged the public not to prejudge the officers before the completion of the legal process.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi defended the principle of due process, stating that police officers, like all citizens, are entitled to the presumption of innocence until investigations are concluded.
The investigation is expected to further fuel discussions in Italy over police accountability and possible reforms to law enforcement procedures during arrests.
