Italy deploys 500 troops to Milan

 

TT

 

Published 13.16

 

Demonstrators and police clash in Milan. Photo: Stefano Porta /AP/TT

The Italian government is bolstering security in Milan with 500 military personnel following recent demonstrations.

Protests against the high cost of living turned violent in several Italian cities over the weekend, with a number of luxury stores being looted. The government has pledged to respond with “decisive measures.” Among these, plans are underway to reinforce security in Milan with 500 troops as part of the “Safe Streets” (*Strade Sicure*) operation.

“We need the Council of Ministers to approve regulations that will allow them to act in the same capacity as the police,” said Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, according to Sky TG-24.

Other measures under discussion include introducing the legal classification of “aggravated criminal damage” and extending the period for which minors can be held in custody—as a preventive measure—from 12 to 24 hours.

President Sergio Mattarella called for an “in-depth analysis” of “acts of violence that appear to erupt unexpectedly, committed by individuals who were not previously on the authorities’ radar.”