Franco Gabrielli: Fakir, Roggero and the poisoned wells of democracy

Franco Gabrielli, former head of police and government minister under Giuseppe Conte, has spoken publicly about recent developments involving the deaths of two individuals, Fakir and Mario Roggero, and their implications for public safety and democratic institutions. In an interview with La Stampa, Gabrielli addressed concerns over how these incidents have fueled fear and polarized society, warning against allowing such emotions to distort the rule of law. Gabrielli discussed the death of Fakir, a man who died during a police operation in Bologna. He emphasized that containment operations are among the most complex tasks for law enforcement, requiring both skill and caution. “The so-called containment is one of the most complicated and delicate activities a police operator is called upon to perform,” he stated. “It presupposes professionalism, but there are also variables, from context to subject, that condition the outcome of the action and therefore impose prudence in judgment.” He noted that one officer had activated his personal body camera before the operation, demonstrating the intent to act responsibly. “So, in the heat of the moment, we cannot give guilty or exonerating judgments. That poisons the debate,” Gabrielli added. He praised the police force for being “sane” and stressed that officers serve the community, not as permanent enforcers. Turning to the case of Mario Roggero, Gabrielli described how the incident has struck a chord with the public. “In a climate where fears have been greatly fueled, people who are afraid tend to identify with the victim who reacts, always and regardless, compared to the perpetrator who falls.” He criticized the public’s reaction, which he said risks undermining the legal process. “On one hand, there is a demand for clemency, as revenge against the verdict, invading the prerogatives of the head of state. On the other, it is said that defense is always legitimate. It is the Wild West instead of the State: do justice yourself. A very dangerous concept,” he concluded. Gabrielli also commented on the broader implications of these events, suggesting they reflect a growing tension between public sentiment and institutional authority. He warned that when fear takes hold, people may lose sight of the legal framework meant to protect them. “The curves are poisoning the wells of democracy,” he said, referring to the increasing polarization and loss of trust in public institutions. His remarks came amid heightened scrutiny of police conduct following the death of Fakir and the controversial trial of Roggero. While some critics argue that the police acted within their rights, others accuse them of excessive force. The situation has sparked heated debates in media and political circles, with calls for greater transparency and accountability. Gabrielli urged patience and adherence to due process. “We must avoid letting emotional responses dictate our actions,” he said. “Public safety requires more than just immediate reactions, it demands a commitment to fairness and the rule of law.” As the discussions continue, the role of law enforcement and the balance between security and civil liberties remain central to the national conversation. With tensions high and public trust in institutions fluctuating, the path forward will depend on how these issues are navigated in the coming weeks.