Protests over rising costs spread across Italy, clashes with police reported

Protests over war and the rising cost of living swept major Italian cities Saturday, with clashes reported in several locations as authorities deployed additional police to prevent a repeat of violence that erupted the previous weekend.

Demonstrations in Turin, Rome and Bologna turned violent, leading to confrontations between protesters and police, while rallies in Milan were largely peaceful, according to Reuters.

Authorities increased security across the country after calls for further demonstrations circulated on social media. Many businesses also closed as a precaution amid concerns that unrest could lead to looting or property damage.

The heightened security measures followed clashes the previous weekend, when demonstrators fought with police and some groups looted shops and damaged property.