Italian judge releases suspect accused of organizing violent protests in Milan, drawing Meloni’s criticism

MILAN, ITALY - OCT. 28, 2026: An Italian judge has ordered the release of a university researcher accused of links to violent unrest during anti-government and cost-of-living protests in Milan earlier this month, prompting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to condemn the decision as “shameful.”

Youssef Siher, a 30-year-old Italian researcher of Moroccan origin, was arrested on Oct. 24 over alleged links to the online group “Movimento 17 ottobre” (“October 17 Movement”), which authorities have linked to violent clashes during protests in Milan. He was accused of incitement to commit crimes for terrorist purposes.

Preliminary investigations judge Tiziana Landoni ordered Siher’s release, Italian media reported, citing insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations, serious flaws in the case file and no apparent risk of flight.

Siher left Milan’s San Vittore prison on Wednesday afternoon without commenting. Pro-Palestinian supporters were waiting for him outside.

In a video message posted on social media, Meloni called the ruling “shameful,” saying it was an intolerable insult to law enforcement officers, investigators, the Interior Ministry and those working to protect citizens from damage to their cities and businesses.