Italy is burning: hundreds arrested, this is the unusual figure worrying authorities

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will convene an emergency security meeting following violent protests in Milan over the cost of living. Over 200 people were arrested, 80% of them minors. Meloni condemned the violence and called the rioters 'thugs'.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will convene an emergency security meeting today (Monday) following violent protests that erupted in Milan over the weekend over the cost of living. Over 5,000 people participated in the protests, which escalated into clashes with police, who used tear gas and water cannons. Masked protesters threw stones, looted shops, and smashed store windows. Over 200 people were arrested, 80% of them minors. Meloni condemned the violence and called the rioters 'thugs', calling on the opposition to condemn the riots. The violence also spread to the cities of Turin and Bologna. Opposition leader Elly Schlein condemned the violence but called not to silence the peaceful protesters.