Family Seeks Justice for Abderrahim Fakir
The relatives of Abderrahim Fakir, a 42-year-old Moroccan man who tragically lost his life during a police intervention in Bologna, Italy, have arrived in Casablanca on August 6, 2023. They are demanding not only the return of his body but also a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. Fakir, who emigrated to Italy when he was just five years old, died on July 19 after being restrained on the ground by two police officers. The incident has raised significant concerns and spotlighted issues related to police conduct and accountability.
Footage captured by a bystander and subsequently disseminated by various Italian media outlets depicts Fakir face down on the pavement for several minutes, pleading for help before becoming unresponsive. This distressing video has sparked outrage and led to protests and public gatherings in Bologna, as community members express their anger over the incident. In light of the public outcry, Italian prosecutors initiated an investigation the day following the occurrence, indicating the severity of the situation.
Community Reaction and Legal Actions
Protests erupted in Bologna as residents clashed with police, demonstrating their frustration and solidarity with Fakir's family. Fabio Anselmo, the family's attorney, has been vocal in accusing authorities and segments of public opinion of shifting the narrative to focus on Fakir rather than addressing the circumstances of his death. He emphasized the need for Italy to recognize the humanity of Fakir, stating, "Italy must understand who this man was who had the audacity to die during a police intervention when he should instead have been given medical care." Anselmo described the video footage as "unbearable," "unacceptable," and "inhuman," underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Karim, a representative of the Si Cobas union, revealed that residents from Bologna's predominantly Moroccan neighborhood have preserved several videos as evidence of the incident. He noted that Fakir had a history of asthma and had previously experienced panic attacks. On the day of the incident, Fakir was reportedly in the street calling for assistance when emergency services were contacted. His family remembers him as a devoted family member who was actively involved in local community associations. His aunt conveyed the family's devastation over his death and reiterated their demand for his body to be returned, which has remained in Italy for nearly three weeks.
Preliminary autopsy findings, as reported by Professor Vittorio Fineschi, a consultant for Fakir's family, indicated blood-filled lungs and extensive hemorrhagic infiltration consistent with compression on the back. Anselmo highlighted that these findings suggest "violent mechanical asphyxia by dorsal compression." The family remains resolute in their pursuit of justice, insisting on the repatriation of Fakir's body to Morocco and a thorough investigation into the events leading to his tragic demise.
As reported by northafricapost.com.
