Covid: Protesters clash with police in Italy

A number of groups have rioted as COVID-19 restrictions are upped in Italy.

In Milan, crowds chanted "Freedom, freedom, freedom!" as they clashed with police in the city centre.

Some of the protest rallies and ensuing violence were captured in footage that circulated on social media, including an encounter in Milan that saw demonstrators hurl what appears to be a petrol bomb at an approaching police auto while chanting "Liberta!".

Far-right and nationalist politicians ramped up their attacks on Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, accusing him of sacrificing the economy for measures that will not save Italy from the virus.

The Italian government announced, Tuesday, October 27, the release of more than 5 billion euros to help the professional categories most affected by the measures imposed to contain the Covid-19 epidemic.

It comes as Europe's daily Covid-19 deaths have risen by almost 40 per cent in the past week.

In Milan, several hundred protesters assembled at the regional government's headquarters near the main train station, with some throwing stones, petrol bombs and fireworks.

It also provides funds until January 31 for furlough schemes which have been in place since mid-March, while the government's 2021 budget will extend them for an additional 12 weeks.

In declaring the restrictions, Mr Conte said they were aimed at preventing a sweeping, strict nationwide lockdown.

"If we follow these rules, we will have a chance to arrive in December with some serenity, without a national health service overstressed and exhausted".

"What is the point of preventing us from leading an nearly normal life until the possible arrival of lockdown", asked Sicily President Nello Musumeci, saying local officials had the power to push back closing time until 10:00 pm if they chose.

"These measures are therefore necessary to protect our economic, productive and social system and to avoid to damage it beyond fix".