Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni faces calls for transparency from opposition leaders after a gun belonging to an MP from her far-right Brothers of Italy party accidentally fired at a New Year's Eve gathering.
Emanuele Pozzolo, the owner of the pistol, confirmed its ownership but denied firing the bullet. The incident resulted in a minor injury to a 31-year-old man from the security team of the Italian justice ministry undersecretary, Andrea Delmastro.
Prosecutors are investigating Pozzolo on charges of wounding, dangerous discharge of a weapon, and failure to properly care for a firearm. They have seized the 0.22 caliber North American Arms mini-revolver and the bullet as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Reports suggest that the gun discharged after being passed around among guests at a party hosted by Delmastro's sister in Rosazza. Pozzolo clarified that the firearm, legally owned by him, fired accidentally but not by his hand.
Elly Schlein, leader of the centre-left Democratic Party, called on Meloni to clarify the actions she plans to take against Pozzolo, expressing concern about the safety implications of such incidents.
Matteo Renzi, former prime minister and leader of the centrist Italia Viva party, criticized the incident, questioning the need to bring a gun to a New Year's Eve party. He described Meloni's government as inadequate, incapable, and dangerous.
As of now, Meloni has not publicly addressed the incident. A statement from Brothers of Italy emphasized that the event holds no political relevance and pledged appropriate action if any illegal behavior on Pozzolo's part emerges from the investigation.
Delmastro, not present during the incident, distanced himself from Pozzolo and expressed surprise at the presence of a gun at the party. Italy has stringent laws governing gun ownership, with a rigorous licensing process and additional permits required for public carrying.