Bologna, July 26, 2026 – “Those who have to face the complex issue of security often find themselves doing so in difficult, unpredictable, high-tension conditions, which require the indispensable skills of using force but also and above all controlling it. Solidarity towards the police forces is full and it is precisely in their interest to evaluate the facts and verify if there have been any errors and responsibilities.” This was stated by the Archbishop of Bologna and president of the CEI Matteo Maria Zuppi in an interview with ‘Avvenire’ responding to a question about the case of Abderrahim Fakir, who died in Pilastro in Bologna during a police intervention.
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“Violence and hatred become a vortex difficult to control”
“Let us always remember that peace is never once and for all and that polluting the environment with violent words and gestures is always dangerous and culpable, it divides and weakens that living organism that our communities are. And these are seeds that will bear fruit. Violence and hatred become a vortex difficult to control, Pope Leo emphasized this well for war, which plunges everyone into the abyss of conflict. Therefore – Zuppi underlines – never justify hatred, aggression, prejudice.”
“I appreciated the commitment of Minister Matteo Piantedosi”
Regarding the Bologna incident, “I appreciated the commitment of Minister Matteo Piantedosi: ‘It will not be a new Cucchi case,’ he said. A commitment to truth and justice, to confirm trust in institutions, an antidote to ‘do-it-yourself’ anger and revenge. As Fakir’s niece courageously requested.”
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“Presumption of innocence until proven guilty”
Asking for justice, obviously, does not mean condemnation; the presumption of innocence exists until proven otherwise for everyone, but it means ascertaining the facts and an equitable judgment on responsibilities. And this process requires time and study. Rushing to conclusions in one direction or another, judging intentions, is dangerous for everyone and emphasizes the already marked polarization which, instead of helping the truth, only serves to assert one’s own! Violence is always unacceptable and to be condemned without any ambiguity or false understanding.”
“The impact of the images of Fakir’s death was disconcerting”
“The impact of the images of Fakir’s death was disconcerting – Zuppi recalls – We must not forget or underestimate it. These could and can provoke reactions of anger and violence. We regret and condemn what happened: the violence of an absolute minority compared to peaceful participants, however, cannot tarnish intentions of solidarity. Unfortunately, everything is then interpreted in that key of violence. I make these considerations aware that the agonism of politics can reduce them to pro or con, to conveniences or opportunisms. The Church is free from this: it seeks only to defend humanity and the common good, which is always for everyone and by everyone.”
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