Meloni called for a full investigation into the death of a detainee in Bologna
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Abderrahim Fakir, who died while in police custody in Bologna. At the same time, she condemned the violence against law enforcement officers during the protests that took place in the city following the incident.
According to European Truth, Abderrahim Fakir, a native of Morocco, died on Sunday. The police were called regarding a man who, according to available information, was behaving aggressively and damaging a car.
In a statement on the social media platform X, Meloni emphasized the need to thoroughly establish responsibility. “It is extremely important that responsibility be established with the utmost care. The truth must be properly established, without bias and without leniency toward anyone,” the prime minister wrote.
In the video of the final minutes of Fakir’s life, he can be seen lying face down on the ground while two police officers restrain him. He can be heard calling for help and saying he cannot breathe, after which his movements gradually cease.
The prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation. The man’s death has reignited debate in Italy over the use of force by police during arrests.
On Monday, a demonstration took place in central Bologna that escalated into clashes. According to the COISP police union, 56 law enforcement officers were injured. A group of protesters threw firecrackers, bottles, and chairs at the police, while law enforcement officers used tear gas and water cannons.
Meloni stated that those involved in the violence were not seeking the truth but were seeking confrontation.
