Police in Milan arrested six people on Saturday after clashes erupted during a major protest held on the opening day of the Winter Olympic Games, raising fresh security concerns as Italy begins hosting one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

Thousands of demonstrators marched through the northern Italian city to protest against a range of issues, including the rising cost of living and opposition to the Olympics. While most of the protesters remained peaceful, tensions escalated when some protesters fired flares and threw stones at police. Authorities responded with water cannon in an effort to disperse the crowd and regain control.

Government Under Pressure After Turin Violence

The Milan unrest comes just days after the Italian government tightened protest laws following a violent demonstration in Turin last weekend. According to government figures, more than 100 police officers were injured during the Turin clashes.

That protest began as a response to the eviction of an unofficial social centre but later turned violent when armed groups confronted security forces. More than 30 people were arrested.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attack on a police officer who was reportedly struck with a hammer, calling it attempted murder.

Following the violence, the government fast-tracked a new security package, adopted on Thursday, which allows police to detain suspected troublemakers for up to 12 hours before demonstrations. Critics have described the measure as repressive and warned it could restrict civil liberties.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini defended the tougher stance, calling those involved in clashes in Milan “criminals” and praising the new security rules as necessary to prevent further unrest.

Protesters Criticise Olympic Costs and Impact

Despite the violence, most demonstrators in Milan marched peacefully. Protesters accused the government of prioritising Olympic spending while ordinary Italians struggle with inflation and higher living costs.

Some activists also raised concerns about the environmental and social impact of the Games. One protester told AFP the Olympics were “no longer sustainable,” while organiser Alberto di Monte said the event had been promoted as sustainable and cost-neutral, but had instead led to heavy spending on roads and infrastructure across multiple locations.

Rail Disruptions Investigated as Possible Sabotage

Separately, Italy’s transport system faced major disruption on Saturday after suspected sabotage hit parts of the northern railway network.

A fire damaged rail infrastructure between Bologna and Venice, while police later discovered severed electric cables near Bologna and a rudimentary explosive device left close to the tracks. Another track switch was reportedly set alight near Pesaro on the Adriatic coast.

The transport ministry described the incidents as “suspected sabotage” and compared them to vandalism attacks reported during the start of the Paris Olympics in 2024. Rail operator RFI later said services had returned to normal.

The Winter Olympics will run until 22 February across several venues, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno and Bormio, with authorities now facing increased pressure to ensure security throughout the event.