Protesters clash with police as demonstrations sweep across Italy

By Seyma Erkul Dayanc

ISTANBUL (AA) - Fighting broke out between protesters and police in several Italian cities on Saturday, with police officers using tear gas and water cannons in Rome, Turin, and Bologna, the ANSA news agency reported.

Police used tear gas after demonstrators threw bottles and fireworks at them in Turin. Police also deployed water cannons and tear gas in Rome after protesters threw bottles during a march.

In Bologna, police officers pushed back demonstrators after bottles and firecrackers were thrown at them, while tensions were also reported in Milan and Florence, where police blocked protesters from entering parts of the city centers.

Police also carried out more than 150 searches in Milan, nearby Monza, and 20 other cities as part of investigations into unrest during demonstrations last weekend.

The searches were linked to an investigation into alleged threats and plans to attack police, damage vehicles and set buildings on fire, according to ANSA.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said authorities had reinforced security in cities considered particularly sensitive and would respond firmly to violence.

Şeyma Erkul Dayanç