Six people were arrested after clashes between police and protesters in Milan on Saturday, the opening day of the Winter Olympics. Thousands marched through the city to oppose the Games and protest wider issues, including the rising cost of living. While most demonstrators remained peaceful, some set off fireworks and threw stones, prompting police to respond with water cannon.
The unrest followed the introduction of tougher protest laws after violent demonstrations in Turin last weekend. That protest began peacefully but later escalated when armed groups confronted police during the eviction of an unofficial social centre. More than 100 officers were injured, over 30 people were arrested, and one officer was attacked with a hammer.
Protesters argue their concerns extend beyond public order to the Games’ long-term impact. Francesca Missana told AFP the Olympics were no longer environmentally or socially sustainable. Organiser Alberto di Monte said billions had been spent on roads instead of protecting mountain areas.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described those protesting against the Olympics as the “enemy of Italy”. She said the clashes had damaged the country’s international image as millions watched the Games’ opening. Meloni also linked the unrest to suspected sabotage on northern Italy’s railway network, where investigators are examining incidents involving locked rail cables.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini labelled those involved in the Milan clashes “criminals”. He said the violence justified a fast-tracked security package adopted on Thursday. The new measures allow police to detain suspected troublemakers for up to 12 hours before demonstrations to prevent unrest.
Critics have described the security package as repressive.
