A Moroccan‑born man died in Bologna after police used pepper spray and physical restraint, prompting nationwide outrage.
Thousands marched Monday night demanding justice for Abderrahim Fakir, the deceased.
A smaller group clashed with officers overnight, with 64 police officers reported injured.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the events unacceptable and condemned the violence, insisting the truth must be investigated but no excuses are tolerated for attacks on law‑enforcement.
The incident began when the man, reportedly acting erratically, kicked garage doors; officers arrived and after a video shows them sitting on him, pepper spray was used before a third person pinned his legs.
Prosecutors opened a manslaughter investigation against the officers and the medical staff on scene, citing the man’s lack of weapon and peaceful demeanor.
Fakir’s sister spoke on Italian media, demanding the truth after her brother was “killed mercilessly.”
Bologna mayor Matteo Lepore praised the demonstration that gathered peacefully and called on the family to join him on stage.
Police union secretary‑general Domenico Pianese criticized hosting a protest the day after the incident, arguing attackers used the crime to fuel violence.
Opposition senators and party leaders voiced disapproval of government support for police, citing past cases such as the death of Stefano Cucchi and calling for reforms to prevent misuse of power.
