Morocco asks Italy for full investigation into Moroccan man's death in Bologna

Morocco has asked Italian authorities to explain the death of Moroccan national Abderrahim Fakir during his arrest in Bologna, after the case triggered large protests in the Italian city.

Fakir died after police tackled him to the ground. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called on Tuesday for the case to be investigated fully, saying the truth must be pursued without prejudice or leniency.

Morocco's foreign ministry said late Tuesday that Rabat had urged Italian authorities to fully clarify the incident, establish responsibility and ensure the required legal measures and procedures are applied. The ministry said it was following the case closely and with concern.

Prosecutors opened an inquiry on Monday into the death of Fakir, who was 42 and had come to Italy at the age of five. He died after being restrained chest-first on the ground by police for several minutes. A resident's video showed him calling for help while two policemen held him down and other first responders watched.

The two policemen and four first responders are under investigation by the prosecutor.

A demonstration involving several thousand people took place in Bologna on Monday, according to images from local media. Clashes with law enforcement followed. Police headquarters said 64 officers were injured. Sky TG24 reported that 11 protesters were also injured.

Meloni also condemned the violence during the protest over Fakir's death.