Milan judge frees researcher held over protest incitement allegations

ROME -- A Milan Judge has ordered the immediate release of Youssef Siher , a 30-year-old researcher detained on suspicion of using social media to incite violence, following the city’s Oct.17-18 disturbances.

  Judge Landoni rejected the prosecutors’ request to uphold his detention and keep him in custody on Oct.28, she found insufficient evidence of the alleged offenses and no concrete risk of flight upon assessment, according to the reported court order. 

  The 30-year-old was detained on Oct.24 over suspected incitement to commit crimes with a terrorist purpose and organized violence at public demonstrations.  Prosecutors alleged that his online activity was intended to encourage further unrest and damage.

  The Telegram and Instagram channels he administered, called “Movimento 17 Ottobre” (October 17 Movement), were found to have been created after the initial clashes. Landoni said his posts promoted “civil disobedience” and found no evidence that he had backed other users’ calls for violence.

  The demonstrations against rising living costs saw clashes with police, looting and fires in central Milan. Following a trend seen across Europe where similar demonstrations have also led to violent clashes. 

  Prime Minister. Giorgia Meloni called the release of Siher “shameful” in a Video statement released across the premier’s social media. Milan Court president Fabio Roia condemned her public criticism as “unacceptable” In a statement issued by the court.

  Siher’s lawyers deny that his posts amounted to criminal incitement as the investigation continues, his lawyer Benedetto Ciccarone said in comments following the ruling.

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