'Migration has been weaponised': Italy's security law criticised after death of Moroccan man in police restraint

The Guardian reported this week that the death of Abderrahim Fakir, a Moroccan man, in police restraint has become the first case in which Italy's new security law's legal shield giving police greater protection from prosecution has been invoked. The case has drawn criticism that 'migration has been weaponised' amid concerns over the expanded protections for officers.

The incident occurred on 19 July, when Fakir's final moments were captured and widely watched. The Guardian's reporting notes that the legal shield, part of a broader security law, is intended to protect police acting in the line of duty, but critics argue it may shield misconduct and undermine accountability.

The case has reignited debate over Italy's approach to migration and policing, with the foreign press framing it as a test of the balance between officer protection and human rights. The Guardian quoted critics saying the law's invocation in this case signals a troubling precedent.