Clashes erupted in Bologna on Monday evening during a protest organised after the death of Fakir Abdelrahim, a 42-year-old Moroccan national, as Italian prosecutors launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation concerns two police officers and four healthcare workers, who are being examined to determine whether any responsibility may arise in connection with alleged manslaughter through negligence.
Circumstances of the incident
According to witness accounts, Abdelrahim reportedly displayed aggressive behaviour on Monday afternoon and may have been experiencing a psychotic episode.
Police officers called to the scene restrained him on the ground. Video footage circulating online reportedly shows Abdelrahim, who suffered from asthma and a heart condition, repeatedly calling for help before he stopped breathing several minutes later.
Protest followed by unrest
During the evening demonstration, some protesters threw bottles, metal bars and firecrackers at police officers.
Police responded with water cannons and tear gas.
According to the report, the victim's family had repeatedly appealed for a peaceful protest and urged demonstrators not to resort to violence.
Family calls for justice
Abdelrahim's sister, who witnessed the incident, called for justice to be delivered without delay.
The case has also drawn attention to reports that Red Cross healthcare workers were present near the scene during the restraint and while the 42-year-old was calling for help, but did not intervene.
Prosecutorial investigation
The Bologna Public Prosecutor's Office said investigations are under way involving six individuals and added that "the events are more extensive than what appears in the video published on the internet."
Prosecutors are seeking to determine whether the two police officers and four healthcare workers bear any responsibility for manslaughter through negligence.
Special procedure applied
According to the report, the investigation is being conducted under a special procedure introduced following measures adopted by the government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The procedure recognises that the police officers and healthcare workers were present at the scene due to a legitimate professional duty, while investigators assess the actions taken during the incident.
Source: CNA
