Italian government deploys 500 troops to Milan to maintain order

Army mobilisation to stabilise the situation

The Italian cabinet has decided to deploy 500 military personnel to Milan. This measure aims to restore public order following large-scale protests in the city. The Il Mattino newspaper reported this, citing sources in government circles.

The decision was made during a morning government meeting with the support of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Official approval of the decree will take place at a cabinet meeting on 20 October at 17:30 local time (18:30 Kyiv time). Final details of the document are currently being refined.

Expansion of military powers

According to the publication, military personnel may be granted a range of powers that would align their status with that of law enforcement officers. Specifically, they may be given the right to detain individuals "at the scene of the crime" (at the scene of the crime).

Consequences of the 18 October clashes

The riots in Milan's shopping centre on 18 October led to significant consequences. Police arrested 32 people and brought 271 individuals to police stations. Among those detained were 220 minors and 60 foreigners.

Fourteen law enforcement officers required medical assistance during clashes with protesters. The Confcommercio Milano business association estimated the damage to trading platforms and establishments in the city centre at over €700,000.