In Bologna, tensions skyrocketed during an anti-fascist march that clashed with law enforcement. The demonstrations, which began in Piazza del Nettuno, attracted a significant number of participants and targeted the Rete dei Patrioti protest, a controversial group linked to CasaPound.
The demonstrators quickly walked down via Irnerio, heading towards the area where the CasaPound group was located. After passing through Parco della Montagnola, part of the procession attempted to approach the Pincio steps, where they came into contact with the riot police.
During the confrontation, protesters threw smoke bombs and firecrackers, creating an atmosphere of chaos and confusion. There was another group of people under the steps, separated by the police departments in Piazza XX Settembre and by a construction site. A disturbing episode occurred when a passerby was attacked by some participants in the march. The man, visibly recognizable by a distinctive tattoo, was surrounded and beaten by about fifteen activists. Despite the attempts to walk away bleeding, the attack aroused concern among those present.
The Police Headquarters confirmed the presence of other groups protesting against CasaPound. A second march of about 200 anarchists formed in Piazza dell’Unità but did not lead to direct clashes with the police. The police explained that their intervention was necessary to avoid contact between the two groups of protesters. Despite the tense situation, this second front decided to retreat without further escalation.
The Police Headquarters also noted that the main procession, without warning, attempted to bypass the police blocks and forced a barrier made up of ten officers from the Mobile Unit. After about ten minutes of clashes and smoke bombs being thrown towards Via Indipendenza, the protesters returned to the park.
These events in Bologna highlight the persistent challenges of political demonstrations in the country. The growing polarization between different ideologies continues to generate tensions on the streets of Italian cities. While authorities try to maintain public order, it remains to be seen how social and political dynamics will evolve in the current context.
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