Italy Targets Foreign-Born Rioters with New Anti-Violence Measures

2 min read

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced new measures to combat violent riots and looting that have spread across Italy, Albania, and Belgium. The violence, which began in Italy on October 5, has led to the arrest of 330 individuals, half of whom are of foreign origin, according to the Italian government. Meloni described the rioters as ‘thugs’ and emphasized that the actions are not a form of protest but a crime.

Strict Penalties for Violent Protest Participation

The new decree introduces a specific crime: violent participation in a protest. Individuals who join a group of five or more people and engage in acts such as throwing stones, firecrackers, or sticks face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to €20,000. If the face is covered or someone is injured, the penalties are increased.

Parents Responsible for Damage Caused by Minors

Under the new measures, parents will be held responsible for damages caused by minors under 18. If damage is done to public or private property, the Prefecture or property owner can issue a payment order, which can be enforced immediately. The affected parties can seek compensation from the family’s assets or even state funds.

Legal Changes for Juvenile Offenders

The decree also introduces changes to the legal treatment of minors. The presumption of understanding the actions of young people aged 14 to 18 is now applied unless proven otherwise. Preventive detention, previously reserved for adults, can now be used for minors as well.

Increased Security and Resources

To support these measures, 500 additional soldiers will be deployed to Milan to assist police and Carabinieri officers until the end of the year. The youth justice system will also receive more judges, prosecutors, and detention center capacity to ensure swift justice for all offenders.

Call for Stronger Enforcement

Meloni emphasized that the government will take swift action to prosecute the crimes and enforce all available regulations, including recent security decrees. She highlighted that the youngest minor identified in Milan was just 11 years old, underscoring the severity of the situation and the need for immediate intervention.

Context and Public Response

The riots, initially framed as student protests over classroom overcrowding and teacher shortages, have evolved into violent acts of looting and destruction. Meloni warned that such actions threaten public safety and the right of citizens to enjoy their cities without fear. She urged the public to recognize that vandalism and theft are not a form of protest but serious crimes that must be met with firm state action.