Man dies after being restrained by police in Bologna amid protests

A Moroccan-born man, Abderrahim Fakir, died after being forcibly restrained by police officers in the Pilastro neighbourhood of Bologna on Sunday, authorities and witnesses said; prosecutors have opened a manslaughter investigation and protests followed in the city.

Police were called after a neighbour reported Fakir behaving erratically and kicking garage doors. Officers attempted to calm him and used pepper spray before footage showed two policemen sitting on Fakir as he lay face down while a civilian pinned his legs; emergency workers were present. The video indicates Fakir stopped struggling about two minutes in, was handcuffed and later found unconscious, with an ambulance worker noting he was no longer moving.

Prosecutors in Bologna have launched a manslaughter probe into the conduct of the police officers and medical workers who were at the scene. Eyewitnesses told Italian media that Fakir appeared distressed but unarmed and did not threaten anyone. His sister, Khadija, called for the truth and said the family wanted answers.

On Monday night several thousand people gathered in central Bologna to demand justice for Fakir, while a smaller group clashed with police, injuring officers and setting two cars alight. Local authorities reported 64 police hurt in the unrest. Mayor Matteo Lepore organised a demonstration and invited Fakir’s niece to join him on stage; he said viewers of the video were shocked.

Police union Secretary-General Domenico Pianese criticised the mayor’s call for a protest the day after the incident and defended the officers’ initial actions, saying footage had been handed to prosecutors and that the use of pepper spray and assistance from a civilian indicated the force was not excessive. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the violence against police unacceptable while saying the death must be investigated thoroughly.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The footage of Fakir being restrained prompted a criminal investigation and a public outcry that produced both peaceful mass demonstrations and a smaller violent faction. Officials and union representatives offered differing interpretations of the officers’ actions, while prosecutors are examining both police and medical personnel involved. The case has drawn statements from local leaders and national figures and remains under formal investigation.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Abderrahim Fakir died after being restrained by police in Bologna; prosecutors opened a manslaughter investigation.
• Video shows officers sitting on Fakir and a civilian restraining his legs; he was later found unconscious and handcuffed.
• Several thousand protested peacefully; a smaller group clashed with police, injuring officers and setting two cars alight.