Italian police arrested six people after clashes erupted between security forces and protesters in Milan, one of the host cities of the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, according to BBC News. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Saturday to protest rising living costs, stricter security laws, and concerns over the economic, social, and environmental impact of hosting the Games.
While the majority of protesters marched peacefully, a section of the crowd became violent, throwing stones and firing flares at police officers. Security forces responded using water cannons to disperse the crowd. The clashes came just a week after similar unrest in Turin, where more than 100 police officers were injured during protests that initially began peacefully before turning violent.
Following the Turin violence, the Italian government fast-tracked a new security package that allows police to detain suspected troublemakers for up to 12 hours before demonstrations to prevent unrest. The move has drawn criticism from civil rights groups, who describe the measures as repressive.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini defended the law, describing those involved in the Milan clashes as “criminals” and insisting tougher measures are necessary to maintain public order.
Authorities were also investigating suspected acts of sabotage on northern Italy’s rail network on the same day. Fires, severed cables, and a rudimentary explosive device were discovered near key rail hubs, including Bologna, causing major travel disruptions. Officials later confirmed that rail services had returned to normal.
The Winter Olympics are scheduled to run until 22 February across multiple locations in Italy, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and several Alpine regions. The clashes highlight growing public tension as Italy prepares to host one of the world’s largest sporting events amid economic strain and heightened security concerns.
