Italian police conduct 150 searches in Lombardy over October 17 riots

Italian authorities conducted over 150 searches, mainly in Lombardy, as part of the investigation into the October 17 riots in Milan. The operation, coordinated by the Digos, extends beyond the riot locations to other cities including Monza. Investigators are also examining Telegram messages from the "Movimento 17 ottobre" groups. One chat reportedly contained incitement to violence against police, including plans to steal officers' weapons and burn public buildings. One message read: "We deleted all city subgroups to leave police no written evidence." The Italian magistrates' association (Anm) criticized the approach, saying it is shortsighted to address youth unrest only through repression.