Italian Prime Minister Criticizes Judge’s Decision to Release Protest Suspect

ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned on Wednesday a “shameful” judicial ruling that dismissed terrorism charges against a suspect linked to violent protests in Milan, calling the decision a “humiliation” for public safety officials. The suspect, 30-year-old Youssef Siher, was arrested on October 24 for allegedly managing social media accounts of the anti-government “October 17 Movement,” which organized protests in Milan on October 17 and 18 that turned violent, damaging several shops. Prosecutors had charged Siher with “incitement to commit offenses with the aggravating circumstance of terrorism and organized violence during a demonstration.” However, Judge Tiziana Landoni dismissed the case, stating there was insufficient evidence of direct incitement to violence, and ordered Siher’s immediate release. In a video on X, Meloni asserted, “I consider shameful the decision by the preliminary investigations judge in Milan not to validate the arrest,” adding it undermined efforts to protect citizens from destruction of property and safety. She emphasized her remarks were a “defense of public servants dedicated to preventing unrest.” The ruling occurs amid rising political tensions, with Meloni’s center-right government facing scrutiny from far-right challengers like National Future. The government’s 2023 constitutional referendum to limit judicial autonomy failed to pass, intensifying accusations of liberal bias within the judiciary. Following the October 17 protests, authorities detained numerous activists and deployed military forces in Milan. On October 24, planned demonstrations saw reduced turnout and remained largely peaceful. Siher’s lawyer declined to comment, while supporters, including the Young Palestinians movement, accused the government of scapegoating him. Center-left parties have urged Meloni to address security concerns in parliament. “You found the perfect culprit, the Osama bin Laden of Brescia… And now you say it’s the judges’ fault?” criticized Five Star Movement’s Riccardo Ricciardi, highlighting partisan divisions over public order and judicial independence.

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