Death in police custody in Bologna sparks outcry across Italy

A Moroccan resident of Italy died while being restrained by police in Bologna on Monday, according to reports from the New York Times and Al Jazeera. Video footage of the final moments of Abderrahim Fakir, who pleaded for help as officers held him down, circulated on social media and sparked immediate protests across the country. The death set off an outcry that drew comparisons to the killing of George Floyd in the United States, according to the New York Times.

Human rights campaigners and Italy's opposition parties demanded answers on Monday, while government leaders defended the police response, according to the Local Italy. The incident prompted a formal investigation into the circumstances of his death. The case has become a focal point for debates over police conduct and the treatment of migrants and residents of colour in Italy.