Rome, March 28 – The Eternal City is under heightened security today as an estimated 15,000 people are expected to participate in the ‘Together. Against the Kings and their Wars’ demonstration. The protest, organized by the ‘No Kings Italia’ movement and supported by Askatasuna activists, is set to march through the heart of Rome, drawing significant attention from law enforcement.
Extensive Security Measures in Place
The Rome Digos (General Investigations and Special Operations Division) and the Carabinieri’s intelligence unit have been working for days to ensure public order and safety. Several meetings have already taken place at the Prefecture to analyze the potential risks, with a provincial committee for public order and security scheduled for Thursday to finalize the arrangements. Further details of the security plan will be ironed out in a technical meeting at the police headquarters following the committee.
Authorities are on maximum alert, particularly given the historical context of the March 28 date. This date was chosen by Askatasuna activists for a series of mobilizations following their eviction on December 18. The recent explosion in a farmhouse at Rome’s Aqueduct Park, which resulted in the deaths of two anarchists, Sara Ardizzone and Alessandro Mecogliano, while constructing an explosive device, has further elevated the security level. Despite this, investigators’ monitoring currently indicates no specific immediate threats.
Concerns Over Infiltration and Regional Arrivals
A primary concern for authorities is the potential for extremist factions to infiltrate the peaceful demonstration. To mitigate this risk, special attention will be paid to arrivals from outside the Lazio region. Controls will be intensified at key transportation hubs, including train and bus stations, as well as at highway toll booths, becoming progressively stricter closer to the event.
The Protest Route: From Piazza della Repubblica to Piazza San Giovanni
The demonstration is scheduled to commence at 2:00 PM from Piazza della Repubblica. Participants will then proceed to Piazza San Giovanni, following a route that includes Via Luigi Einaudi, Piazza dei Cinquecento, Via Cavour, Piazza dell’Esquilino, Via Liberiana, and Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore. This route will likely lead to significant traffic disruptions and public transport diversions throughout the afternoon.
Background of the ‘No Kings’ Movement and Askatasuna
The ‘No Kings Italia’ movement is part of a broader global mobilization advocating against monarchical systems and wars. The involvement of Askatasuna activists adds another layer of complexity, given their history of direct action and recent clashes with authorities. The number of participants, initially estimated at 15,000 based on the official notification to the police headquarters, could potentially be higher, especially in the wake of the ‘No’ vote victory in a recent referendum, which may energize various protest groups.
Local authorities are committed to facilitating the right to protest while ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. The comprehensive security plan aims to manage the large crowd, prevent any potential disturbances, and maintain public order across the city of Rome.
