The Indian embassy in Italy has issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals amid protests over rising living costs and poor public services, some of which turned violent over the weekend. The embassy has urged Indians to avoid crowded areas and protest sites, exercise caution and follow local news for updates.
Italy protests: Police clash with demonstrators in Milan
The demonstrations escalated as protesters engaged in acts of vandalism, prompting police to intervene to disperse the crowds and restore order in the area. More than 60 protesters were taken to the police station for further checks, the sources added.
Police in riot gear fired tear gas and used water cannons after several hundred hooded protesters broke shop windows and set bins on fire in the area near central Piazza Duomo, sources with knowledge of the investigation told Reuters.
The clashes followed similar unrest in several Italian cities a day earlier. The advisory comes after Milan police clashed with protesters throwing stones and looting shops during demonstrations against poor services and the rising cost of living on Sunday.
“In case of any emergency, Indian nationals can contact the Embassy of India in Rome at +39 331 614 2085 or the Consulate General of India in Milan at +39 3881647527,” it added.
