In Brescia, northern Italy, a protest organized by Extinction Rebellion, Last Generation, and the Free Palestine protest group has sparked allegations of misconduct by local police. The demonstrators briefly blocked the entrance to the Leonardo factory, forming a human chain to prevent trucks from entering and leaving. During the protest, the activists also marked the walls with graffiti. Authorities held the activists for approximately seven hours before charging them with "seditious gathering" and "unannounced demonstration."
The incident has raised significant concern following allegations that seven female climate activists were subjected to degrading treatment during police questioning. Reports claim these women were made to remove their underwear and perform squats. Brescia police initially denied these allegations but later issued a statement clarifying that searches were conducted by female officers to detect any dangerous objects. The police emphasized that "the confidentiality and dignity of people were safeguarded at all times and the correct operating procedures were followed."
Italy's Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, faces increasing pressure to initiate an investigation into these allegations. Marco Grimaldi, a politician with the Green-Left Alliance, has also advocated for a thorough inquiry into the incident. This comes at a time when Italy's parliament is debating a contentious security bill aimed at climate activists. The proposed legislation seeks to criminalize those who block roads and railways, imposing fines and potential jail terms of up to two years.
The activists involved in the Brescia protest plan to file a formal complaint about their treatment by police in the coming days. This move underscores the growing tension between climate advocacy groups and Italian authorities, particularly as legislative efforts intensify against such demonstrations.