Bologna protest violence: 4 collective members reported, police brace for Saturday rally

Four people linked to student collectives and social centers in Bologna have been reported for failing to give proper notice of a protest, after investigators identified them as promoters of an unauthorized march that led to violent clashes with police on October 17. The violence, which involved hundreds of young people, including minors, occurred near the central station and caused significant damage. The four individuals face administrative sanctions under depenalized articles of Italian law, while the broader investigation has so far led to 50 identifications, 5 arrests, and 7 further reports. Police are reviewing footage to identify more participants and are on high alert for a new national protest called for Saturday, October 24, by the 'Movimento 17 ottobre' group, which has distributed flyers calling for "permanent mobilization" against the government. Separately, police and carabinieri conducted checks at schools in Bologna and the metropolitan area after threats spread via chat apps, but these were found to be a hoax. The postal police are investigating the origin of the messages, which had caused alarm among students.