Abderrahim Fakir Dies During Bologna Police Arrest as Prosecutors Investigate

Circumstances of the Intervention

According to the Bologna police, officers were dispatched to via Svevo shortly after 12:15 p.m. following reports from residents regarding a man in a state of agitation near a garage area. Authorities stated that Fakir had allegedly struck a vehicle during the disturbance. Video footage captured by local residents shows two officers attempting to restrain Fakir, who was face down on the ground. During the struggle, officers used pepper spray and secured his wrists with zip ties and handcuffs. The footage also depicts a civilian assisting police by holding the man’s ankles while medical personnel stood nearby. Fakir can be heard in the video shouting, “Help, enough,” before his cries ceased. Following the struggle, the man stopped moving and became unresponsive. An officer is seen attempting to elicit a response by tapping him on the shoulder before medical responders from the 118 emergency service intervened.

Official Investigation and Medical Review

The Bologna Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecutor Paolo Guido and PM Domenico Ambrosino, has launched an investigation into the death. The investigation includes the collection of footage from police bodycams, video captured by bystanders, and testimony from witnesses. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the specific cause of death. While the officers involved have not been suspended, their actions are under formal review by judicial authorities. The local health authority (Ausl) of Bologna has also initiated an internal inquiry regarding the conduct of the 118 emergency responders present at the scene.

Background and Community Response

Fakir was a resident of Borgonuovo di Sasso Marconi and the owner of a logistics and porterage firm. He was married and had lived in Italy for many years. The death has drawn significant public outcry. Following the incident, relatives and friends gathered at the site to demand truth and justice, with some family members labeling the death an assassination of state. A vigil was organized in the Pilastro neighborhood, and Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore announced a public reflection event to be held in Piazza Nettuno on July 20. National political figures have also commented on the incident. Mariolina Castellone, vice president of the Senate and a member of the Five Star Movement, stated that while the judiciary must determine any potential liability, the state maintains a fundamental duty to protect the life and dignity of individuals in its custody.

Key Details of the Incident