Italian Police Detain 271 After Looting and Protests in Milan

Italian police detained 271 young people during unrest in Milan on Sunday, October 18, 2026, following protests over rising living costs and declining public services. Demonstrations escalated into clashes with police, store looting and property damage in the city centre. Officers in riot gear used tear gas and water cannons as groups of protesters set rubbish bins on fire and targeted several retail outlets.

Police said 32 people were arrested, including 23 minors, while another 28 people were reported to judicial authorities. Stores affected included sports retailers Decathlon and Arc’teryx, as well as Vodafone outlets. Similar clashes had occurred on Saturday in other northern Italian cities, including Bologna, Brescia, Bergamo and Turin, where 28 protesters were arrested.

The unrest comes amid wider public discontent over living costs and public services, echoing demonstrations in neighbouring France. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the violence and announced a government meeting to discuss the situation. The developments come as Italy prepares for its next election year, placing renewed attention on social and economic concerns.

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