Clashes in Rome and vandalism in Bologna spark nationwide outrage, drawing sharp criticism from Italian leaders.
Violence Breaks Out in Rome
Late Saturday night, protests in Rome over the death of 19-year-old Ramy Elgaml escalated into violent clashes with police. Elgaml, an Egyptian national, died on November 24 during a police pursuit in Milan, with Carabinieri accused of causing his motorcycle to crash.
In the San Lorenzo district of Rome, hundreds gathered to demand justice in a rally organized by student groups and leftist organizations. Tensions quickly escalated when protesters threw smoke bombs at a supermarket, followed by Molotov cocktails targeting police vehicles. Police responded with batons, leading to confrontations that left eight officers injured.
Leaders Condemn Unrest
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence, calling the attacks on police “an unacceptable act of revenge.” She stressed that no tragedy justifies violence and expressed solidarity with law enforcement. “Our thoughts are with the injured officers. We stand firmly by their side,” she stated.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi also denounced the attacks, stating that the right to protest cannot be used as an excuse for violence or defiance of state authority. Parliament Speaker Lorenzo Fontana echoed these sentiments, describing the aggression against law enforcement as “intolerable” and extending his support to the injured officers.
Vandalism in Bologna Targets Synagogue
In Bologna, protests took a disturbing turn as demonstrators stormed and vandalized the city’s synagogue. The unrest spread across the city center, where garbage bins were set on fire, stones were thrown at police and firefighters, windows were smashed, and graffiti defaced walls.
Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore condemned the acts of destruction and expressed solidarity with the Jewish community. “These actions are unjustifiable. We will use video evidence to identify and hold those responsible accountable,” Lepore stated, adding that the city would seek compensation for damages.
Nationwide Anger Over Elgaml’s Death
Protests have erupted in cities across Italy, particularly among migrant communities, in response to Ramy Elgaml’s death. Accusations against the Carabinieri for allegedly causing the fatal crash have fueled widespread frustration and calls for justice.
As tensions rise, Italian leaders are urging calm and accountability. The protests reflect deeper societal grievances, highlighting the need for systemic change while maintaining public order.