A protest broke out following the demise of a man who repeatedly asked for assistance while officers held him down on the ground. Police clashed with demonstrators in Bologna, Italy, after Abderrahim Fakir passed away on Sunday during a police intervention prompted by reports of aggressive behavior and property damage. Local residents contacted the police after witnessing erratic conduct.
Widespread social media footage, deemed too distressing for publication, shows the 42-year-old man pleading for help as he was restrained by two officers while medical personnel stood nearby. The Moroccan-born businessman, residing in Italy since childhood, suffered from heart issues and asthma. Video evidence indicates his gradual immobilization as the officers secured his ankles.
Upon their arrival, officers requested medical assistance and initially tried to calm Fakir. Subsequently, they resorted to pepper spray and restraints while attempting to handcuff him, citing a potential psychiatric episode. Prosecutors have launched an inquiry into Fakir’s passing, seeking body camera recordings from the officers, as human rights advocates and opposition parties demand prompt explanations.
Fakir’s sister, Khadija, expressed dismay to the Corriere della Sera newspaper, emphasizing the need for police protection and proper handling of agitated individuals. His death triggered protests in Bologna, with demonstrators advocating for justice and denouncing state violence. The incident drew parallels to George Floyd’s tragic death in the US and raised concerns about police tactics.
Barbara Spinelli, a lawyer who interacted with Fakir, described him as a law-abiding individual worried about potential expulsion. Ilaria Cucchi, a senator, criticized the solidarity shown to the police, labeling the incident as inhumane. Political figures condemned the violence while promising a fair investigation into Fakir’s death. Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister urged trust in the law enforcement and justice system while cautioning against disparaging remarks towards the police.