[Rome, Italy Dep. Prime Minister Matteo Salvini Found Not Guilty in Kidnapping Case
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has been found not guilty in a criminal kidnapping case dating back to August 2019, when he barred a migrant vessel from docking in the country, leaving 147 asylum seekers stranded offshore for 19 days.
The ruling judge declared “the facts do not exist” justifying the acquittal. The case dates back to when Salvini was interior minister and prohibited the Spanish-flagged Open Arms NGO rescue boat from docking in Sicily, citing national security concerns.
At the time, children and vulnerable people on board were air-lifted to safety. The case drew international attention, with American actor Richard Gere taking food and water to the stranded migrant vessel. Gere was named as a witness but did not testify.
Elon Musk, who tweeted it was “crazy” that Salvini was being tried for “defending Italy,” praised Salvini’s actions. Salvini responded, “Thank you for your solidarity… Defending Italy’s borders was my duty, and I am proud of what I accomplished. Whether I am convicted or acquitted, our fight for FREEDOM and SECURITY in Italy and Europe will continue.”
The acquittal comes as Meloni’s government fights to send migrants to Albania for processing, a scheme blocked by the judiciary. The legality of the Albanian Centers is now to be considered by the European Court of Justice. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her “great satisfaction” with the verdict, calling it a vindication of Salvini’s actions.
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