Morocco has called on Italian authorities to conduct a full and transparent investigation into the death of Abderrahim Fakir, a Moroccan national who died after being restrained by police during an arrest in the northern Italian city of Bologna. In a statement issued late Tuesday, Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was following the case “very closely” and urged Italy to establish the circumstances surrounding Fakir’s death, ensure accountability where necessary and apply all relevant legal procedures.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage in Italy and prompted thousands of people to protest in Bologna, while also drawing a response from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who said the case must be investigated thoroughly and impartially. “The truth must be pursued without prejudice or leniency for anyone,” Meloni said, stressing that any potential wrongdoing should be fully examined. Italian prosecutors opened a formal investigation on Monday into the death of the 42-year-old, who had lived in Italy since the age of five. Investigators are examining the actions of two police officers and four emergency responders who were involved in the arrest. Video footage recorded by a resident appears to show Fakir pinned face-down on the ground by two officers for several minutes while repeatedly calling for help. The footage has intensified public scrutiny of the police response and fueled calls for justice.
The demonstration that followed drew several thousand protesters. Clashes later erupted between demonstrators and security forces, leaving 64 police officers injured, according to authorities. Italian broadcaster Sky TG24 also reported that 11 protesters sustained injuries during the unrest. Morocco reiterated its demand for a prompt, independent and comprehensive investigation, saying it expected Italian authorities to determine responsibility and guarantee justice in accordance with the rule of law. The case has reignited debate in Italy over police conduct, the use of force during arrests and the treatment of minority communities, while placing renewed focus on diplomatic cooperation between Rabat and Rome in ensuring accountability and protecting the rights of Moroccan citizens abroad.
