Italy’s Cabinet Approves Measures in Response to Protests in Northern Italy

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Italy approved sending 500 troops to Milan alongside stricter legal penalties on Tuesday, responding to weekend cost-of-living protests in the country’s north. The cabinet authorized a new offense for violent demonstration participation, increased fines for rioters, and extended police detention powers for youths aged 14 to 17.

The Italian cabinet approved sweeping security measures on Tuesday. The move followed cost-of-living protests across northern cities over the weekend.

The unrest hit Milan, the financial capital. Groups of mainly young people clashed with police, smashed windows, and looted shops.

Troop Deployment and New Legal Penalties in Milan

Under the new measures taking effect immediately, the Italian government is deploying 500 troops to Milan. The military will help reinforce security at key sites, step up surveillance of sensitive locations, and enhance monitoring, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Italy Plans Tougher Security Measures After Violent Protests and Looting Across Milan | NewsX World

Media reports noted that opposition from President Sergio Mattarella prevented the cabinet from granting soldiers policing powers as had been expected.

The cabinet established a new legal offense covering violent participation in a demonstration. It introduced tougher penalties for rioters and made parents financially liable for vandalism and looting committed by their children.

Anyone joining a group of at least five people and endangering public safety during protests now faces up to five years in prison. The maximum fine is €20,000 ($22,460). Penalties increase if participants conceal their faces or injure others.

Authorities can order prompt compensation for any damage inflicted.

Government Faces Southern Blockades and Youth Detention

Police powers have been broadened to allow the detention of youths aged between 14 and 17. This applies if there is evidence they pose a danger, even without a committed crime, extending powers previously reserved for adults.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government faces pressure on a second front in southern Italy. Truck drivers angered by rising diesel prices and living costs have set up roadblocks disrupting supply chains.

Demonstrators across northern and southern regions warn that rising prices are pushing families into poverty ahead of the 2027 national elections.

The disturbances in northern Italy mirror riots in neighbouring France, where hundreds of thousands took to the streets on Saturday.

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