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Bologna Police Smash Wall in Dawn Eviction of Two Families

Activists say the evictions follow a plan to convert the flats into high‑priced short‑term rentals.

Overview

  • Two households with children were removed from adjacent first‑floor apartments at Via Michelino 41 early on 23 October, according to reporters and witnesses.
  • Officers in riot gear forced entry by breaking doors and part of a wall while occupants, including minors, were inside.
  • Videos from the scene show clashes outside with batons and shields, with at least one person seen bleeding and children visibly distressed.
  • Activists say the families had paid rent but faced nonrenewal of expired leases by owner Hoxha to pursue short‑term lets reportedly fetching about €700 per night.
  • Social workers were absent after reportedly being told not to attend, and the families were offered small hotel rooms more than 30 kilometers from Bologna that activists called unsuitable.