Italian Intelligence Sees Possible 'Ceuta Model' in Milan Unrest; New Protests Expected Saturday

Italian intelligence suspects the "Ceuta model" of organized protest mobilization may have driven clashes in Milan, with new protests expected Saturday, October 24. Police conducted searches across 18 cities targeting about 100 people, including 51 minors, following demonstrations on October 17-18. AISI Director Bruno Valensise told the Copasir committee that unknown actors may have used social media and AI-generated flyers to mobilize angry individuals, a tactic previously seen in Ceuta, though no foreign coordination has been identified. Authorities are investigating who fueled the mechanism, with Defense Minister Crosetto previously citing hybrid warfare. Milan will be heavily secured Saturday with police and 500 Folgore paratroopers on patrol, while Mayor Giuseppe Sala urged shopkeepers to stay open. Security officials warn of potential attempts by anarchist groups to infiltrate protests and provoke clashes with law enforcement.