Italy: Tough law approved to target illegal immigrants

Rome, 23 July (AKI) - Italy has approved a controversial new law targeting illegal immigrants with harsher penalties and swifter deportation procedures.

For the first time, illegal immigration will now be treated as an “aggravating circumstance” punishable with a custodial sentence of between six months and four years in prison.

The Italian Senate passed the new measures on Wednesday.

“Finally, we have seen an historic step forward for the care and safety of citizens,” said Maurizio Gasparri, the Senate chief whip for the conservative People of Freedom Party, part of the ruling coalition.

“We have approved a decree that sharpens the penalties against illegal immigrants, the Mafia, those who drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs.”

For the first time, illegal immigration will be a custodial offence in Italy, punishable by between six months and four years in prison.

Source:
Italy: Tough law approved to target illegal immigrants
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