Meloni approves brutal anti-riot laws as Italy ruthlessly cracks down on violent thugs

Unrest in Italy and France

Italian police used water cannons against rioters in Bologna. Footage from Milan showed soldiers deployed near the cathedral as tourists returned, while damage from the unrest remained visible.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni approved the deployment of about 500 soldiers to Milan until the end of the year. She also announced tougher anti-riot laws, including penalties of up to five years in prison for people who harm or endanger others, and preventive detention measures that also apply to minors.

The report contrasted Italy’s response with unrest in France, where a nationwide curfew had been imposed amid protests, looting and continued instability. Correspondent Sophie Ellsworth said unrest had spread beyond Paris, including to Marseille, and had continued for several weeks.

The report cited about 2,500 arrests and more than 1,000 injured police officers in France. President Emmanuel Macron faced criticism over his handling of the situation and for being in the Gulf while unrest continued. Ellsworth said the following 24–48 hours would be important for restoring calm.

Presenters and Contributors

• Peter Credland: Presenter
• Sophie Ellsworth: News Corp Australia correspondent in Europe