Italy to deploy 500 troops to Milan following violent protests

OPA WIRE, Oct 20 (OPA) — Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed on Tuesday that 500 military personnel will be deployed to the streets of Milan to bolster security. The troops, who will be granted judicial police powers, are tasked with maintaining order following a wave of violent demonstrations that spread from France to Italian cities including Turin and Bologna.

"Five hundred military personnel, who will also be granted judicial police powers, will be deployed to help ensure security and carry out robust preventive measures," Tajani said during the Welfare Italia Forum in Rome. The government is currently evaluating a legislative package that includes extending preventive detention to 24 hours for minors and allowing for deferred arrests based on photographic or video evidence of property damage.

The proposed measures aim to address rising concerns over group violence and vandalism. Under current Senate debate, a security bill already proposes prison sentences of up to five years and fines reaching €15,000 for acts of damage committed by groups of five or more people. Officials are considering incorporating these provisions into a new decree to expedite enforcement against those involved in public disorder.

Beyond immediate security, the government is reviewing broader administrative changes, including stricter bans on public gatherings for individuals identified as threats to order and potential penalties for parents of minors involved in violent incidents. While discussions regarding the citizenship of young foreign nationals convicted of crimes have surfaced within the governing coalition, these measures have not yet been confirmed for the final decree.