Protests in Bologna over Death of Moroccan-Born Man in Police Custody
Thousands of people took to the streets in Bologna, Italy, on Monday night to demand justice for Abderrahim Fakir, a Moroccan-born businessman who died after being forcibly restrained by police. The demonstration, which began peacefully, saw a smaller group break away and clash with police into the night, according to authorities.
Italian news agency ANSA reported that police fired tear gas and water cannons after some demonstrators threw a firecracker near police buildings. A group of protesters also sat down in a square holding a photograph of Fakir, describing the action as a gesture of nonviolent protest.
The unrest followed the death of Fakir, who ran a small removals and cleaning business, on Sunday. Police had been called after a neighbour witnessed him behaving erratically and kicking garage doors in the working-class neighbourhood of Pilastro. Officers attempted to calm the situation before using pepper spray, according to Italian media.
A video circulated online shows Fakir lying face down while two police officers sit on him, with a third person, not a policeman, pinning his legs. In the footage, Fakir, who reportedly suffered from heart issues and asthma, cries out for help. After he stops struggling, the officers bind his ankles and one slaps him twice on the cheek before ambulance workers check his vital signs.
Prosecutors in Bologna have opened an investigation into manslaughter against the police officers and medical workers present at the scene. Several eyewitnesses told Italian media that Fakir appeared distressed but did not threaten anyone and was unarmed.
Fakir's sister, Khadija, told Italian media, "You can't die like this. They killed him mercilessly, and I want the truth." Bologna's mayor, Matteo Lepore, told La Repubblica that anyone who watched the video was "shocked" and called for Monday's demonstration. Fakir's niece also spoke at the rally, saying, "He was my uncle. He wasn't a number, he wasn't a news line... he was loved."
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said it was imperative that the truth surrounding Fakir's death be investigated but stressed that "nothing can justify violence against law enforcement." The government reported that 64 police officers were injured in the unrest.
European Affairs Minister Tommaso Foti condemned chants of "police murderers" and "the whole world hates you" heard during the demonstration, calling them "disgraceful."
Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, and the investigation is ongoing.