ROME — Italian police carried out more than 150 searches across Milan and 20 other cities Saturday as authorities tightened security ahead of a new wave of nationwide demonstrations following violent clashes during protests last weekend.The searches, concentrated mainly in the northern Lombardy region, were conducted as part of an investigation into the previous weekend’s unrest, according to Italian news agency ANSA.Judicial sources said the operation was launched after investigators discovered a suspicious chat message on the mobile phone of a young person allegedly involved in the clashes.Those targeted included university students, high school students and minors, most of whom reportedly had no previous criminal records.The police operation came as dozens of new demonstrations were expected across Italy on Saturday.The October 17 Movement, which has called for further protests, said it would announce the final locations and gathering points at the last minute.Authorities reinforced security in several major cities amid concerns about renewed clashes, vandalism and damage to businesses.In Bologna, several businesses in the city center installed wooden panels to protect their shop windows ahead of the demonstrations.Similar precautions were taken in Turin, where shops along major commercial streets boarded up their windows and some businesses announced temporary closures.In Milan, security forces established a heavy presence in the city center, particularly around Piazza Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Corso Vittorio Emanuele II.Police and Carabinieri officers conducted identity checks, while military personnel were also deployed in the area.Although most businesses remained open, several installed protective panels over their windows, while others announced plans to close early.In Florence, luxury boutiques and jewelry stores in the historic city center also boarded up their windows amid concerns about possible disturbances.
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