Thousands Demand Justice After Abderrahim Fakir’s Death
Thousands of people have taken to the streets of Bologna, Italy, demanding justice after the death of Moroccan-born man Abderrahim Fakir during a police restraint incident.
The protests began after footage circulated showing two police officers restraining Fakir, who was lying face down on the ground during the confrontation in the northern Italian city.
The demonstration on Monday evening was largely peaceful, with residents gathering to show support for Fakir’s family and call for answers over the circumstances surrounding his death.
However, a smaller group later broke away from the main protest and clashed with police. Authorities said 64 officers were injured during the unrest, while two vehicles were set on fire.
Police Called After Neighbour Reports Disturbance
Police were called on Sunday morning after a neighbour reported that Fakir was behaving unusually and kicking garage doors in the Pilastro neighbourhood, a working-class area of Bologna.
Officers initially attempted to calm the situation before using pepper spray and physically restraining him.
A video shared by Italian media shows Fakir crying out while two officers held him down. A third person, who was not a police officer, helped restrain his legs while emergency workers were nearby.
The footage shows Fakir becoming unresponsive during the restraint. Police later tied his wrists and ankles, and one officer appeared to slap him after noticing he was no longer moving.
Emergency workers eventually approached and Fakir was taken for medical attention, but he later died.
Investigation Opened Into Police Actions
Bologna prosecutors have launched an investigation into possible manslaughter involving the police officers and medical personnel present at the scene.
Several witnesses told Italian media that although Fakir appeared distressed, he was not threatening anyone and was unarmed at the time of the incident.
His sister Khadija Fakir called for the truth to emerge, saying her brother deserved dignity and proper treatment.
Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore said many people who watched the video were shocked and called for a peaceful demonstration in the city.
Fakir’s niece, Yossra Fakir, addressed protesters, saying her uncle was a loved family member and should not be reduced to a news story.
Government Calls For Investigation And Calm
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the circumstances surrounding Fakir’s death must be fully investigated.
However, she condemned the violence that followed the protests, saying nothing could justify attacks against police officers.
Meloni accused those who caused unrest of using the tragedy as an excuse for confrontation rather than seeking justice.
Bologna’s mayor also criticised the violence but highlighted the difference between the peaceful majority of protesters and the smaller group involved in clashes.
Police Defend Response
Domenico Pianese, head of Italy’s police union, defended the officers involved and argued that the use of force was necessary based on the situation.
He said the officers handed over available body camera footage to prosecutors and insisted the investigation should determine what happened.
Pianese also criticised the decision to hold a demonstration shortly after the incident, claiming it created an opportunity for anti-police groups to exploit public anger.
Family Remembers Fakir’s Life
According to Italian media, Fakir’s family moved to Italy more than 30 years ago and had built a life near Bologna.
He ran a small logistics and delivery business and was described by his lawyer Barbara Spinelli as a hardworking and kind person.
The protests have also drawn comparisons with previous cases involving deaths in police custody, including the 2009 death of Stefano Cucchi.
Opposition politicians have criticised the government’s response, calling for greater accountability and scrutiny of police conduct.
As investigations continue, Bologna remains divided between demands for justice and concerns over rising tensions between protesters and law enforcement.
