Susanna Riva On Saturday evening, the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office , led by Public Prosecutor Francesca Crupi , ordered the arrest of Youssef Siher , a 30-year-old researcher and freelance journalist. He was transferred to San Vittore Prison after being charged with aggravated incitement to commit a crime with a view to terrorism . The charges stem from the violence that occurred over the weekend of October 17 and 18 in Milan, events that had already prompted the government to issue its latest decree against violent demonstrations.
The arrest warrant and the charges
The indictment signed by the Prosecutor's Office describes Siher as "an effective instigator," capable of transforming the chaos of the protests into a widespread threat to the population. According to investigators, he exploited the chaos of the two days in October to form a Telegram group with more than 6,000 members, intended to organize a "riot" planned for October 24, 2026.
The same channel would have broadcast instructions on urban guerrilla techniques , defense manuals and even recipes for increasing violence.
Digital network numbers
In addition to the 6,000 members of the chat, the October 17 Movement 's Instagram page has more than 48,000 followers , and the Telegram community of the same name has around 9,500 contacts.
Authorities seized Siher's cell phones and computers, hoping to uncover evidence regarding the alleged network's communications, contacts, and operating methods. Investigators found messages urging young people to "take to the streets" and cause unrest.
Investigation into his wife and the searches
The wife of Siher, a Lebanese cultural mediator living in Como, has also been investigated for incitement to commit crime . Investigators located her husband using her cell phone, as Siher's was turned off at the time of his arrest. The searches, which also included searches of his parents' home in Mazzano (Brescia), yielded additional digital material that could confirm the links between the two administrators of the Instagram page and Telegram channel.
Possible repercussions with the Genoa DDA investigation
At the same time, the Genoa Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating whether there are any links between Siher and the group arrested as part of the Genoa DDA investigation into alleged financing of Hamas, launched in December 2025. Although Siher's name does not currently appear in closed files, the authorities have not ruled out a connection between the financial support networks and the October 17 Movement's digital platform.
Upcoming hearing and impact on public safety
Tomorrow, PM Crupi will submit a request to the preliminary investigations judge to validate the arrest . The judge will have to assess whether the elements required by Article 270 bis of the Criminal Code, which punishes those who promote, organize, or finance terrorist activities, are present. Meanwhile, law enforcement has increased its presence in Milan and Genoa, anticipating a potential increase in social tension. Businesses have closed their businesses or erected security barriers, evidence of the intimidating effect of the charges against Siher.