Milan: Robbery Suspect Critically Wounded in Rogoredo Shootout with Police
Milan, February 1 – A 31-year-old man, identified as Liu Wenham, is in critical condition after a shootout with police in the Rogoredo district of Milan on Sunday afternoon. The incident unfolded after Wenham allegedly robbed a security guard of his firearm and subsequently engaged in a gun battle with officers from the specialized Uopi unit.
The confrontation occurred around 3:17 PM in Via Cassinis, near Piazza Mistral, approximately two kilometers from the Santa Giulia Arena, which is slated to host Olympic events. Wenham, a Chinese national, is reported to have fired at least three shots at a police vehicle, with some projectiles striking the service car. Police officers, protected by the armored vehicle, returned fire, critically wounding the suspect.
Chronology of Events
According to initial reconstructions, the incident began around 2:30 PM when Wenham reportedly assaulted a 50-year-old Italian security guard in Via Caviglia, also in the Rogoredo neighborhood. The guard was on his way to work when he was allegedly attacked with a stick. Wenham then stole the guard’s pistol and fled the scene, prompting an immediate alert to the 112 emergency services.
Multiple police patrols were dispatched to the area to locate the suspect. The Uopi unit, specialized in high-risk situations involving firearms, intercepted Wenham in Via Cassinis. Upon spotting the police Land Rover, the suspect immediately opened fire, reportedly discharging at least three shots in the direction of the vehicle. One bullet is said to have struck the car near the rearview mirror.
Police Response and Suspect’s Condition
The officers, whose vehicle was armored, then returned fire. Wenham was reportedly hit by at least two bullets: one in the shoulder and another in the head. He was immediately transported by 118 paramedics to Niguarda Hospital in critical condition and is currently in a coma. No police officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire.
The area where the shootout took place was cordoned off by dozens of officers, and forensic teams were on site to conduct initial investigations. A nearby dance school, which had several people inside at the time, was secured, and individuals were allowed to leave once the situation was deemed safe.
Specialized Police Intervention
The deployment of the Uopi unit, formed in the wake of the Bataclan attacks, underscores the severity of the situation. These units are specifically trained and equipped to handle direct fire engagements. It is believed that officers may have used M4 assault rifles, which are part of their standard equipment for such scenarios.
The incident has drawn significant attention in Milan, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat crime and ensure public safety. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the shootout and the motive behind the robbery is ongoing.
This event marks a serious incident in the Rogoredo district, prompting concerns among local residents about safety and security. Authorities have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Source: https://milano.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_febbraio_01/milano-sparatoria-polizia-rapinatore-rogoredo-9f5a7c35-a9c6-4422-a631-f44ec4e62xlk.shtml
