Rome:Demonstrators in Rome engaged in confrontations with police on Saturday as they attempted to march toward the prime minister's office. This follows a period of intensified security measures in Italy after violent protests occurred the previous weekend.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, authorities had increased security in cities ahead of the anticipated demonstrations. Despite these efforts, tensions rose, leading to altercations between police and protesters in various parts of the city.

Throughout the day, different groups held protests in the capital. Far-right groups gathered in the morning to protest last weekend's demonstrations in Milan. In the afternoon, left-wing groups and students marched against "war and imperialism," ending their demonstration peacefully. Later, some of the students clashed with security forces near the Colosseum, but tensions subsided when the students altered their route.

The unauthorized march persisted in locations around the Colosseum, with some demonstrators entering the ancient site to chant slogans. As evening approached, the protesters attempted to reach the prime minister's office but were blocked by a police barricade near Santa Susanna Square. This led to a standoff where some demonstrators threw objects at police, who responded with water cannons and batons.

Eventually, the situation de-escalated as the demonstrators changed their route and left the area upon realizing that police would not permit them to advance further. Italian media reported that 28 individuals were detained earlier on Saturday as a preventive action before the protests in Rome.

Protests also occurred in other cities, including Naples, Bologna, and Turin, focusing on government policies and the rising cost of living. Reports indicated that scuffles between protesters and police occurred in Bologna and Turin. Meanwhile, in Milan, precautionary measures included deploying 500 soldiers and boarding up shop windows.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her gratitude to law enforcement officers for maintaining safety and order, acknowledging their efforts against some violent groups attempting to incite disorder in Italy.