On the evening of August 17, a significant unrest erupted in the Bari prison, primarily involving inmates from the second section, where common offenders are held.

The disturbance began around 7:35 PM, with approximately 70 inmates protesting by damaging property and setting fire to bedding.

During the chaos, an infirmary nurse was briefly taken hostage, and a prison officer was injured while attempting to restore order.

The prison, which is severely overcrowded with 390 inmates in a facility meant for 252, has been a point of concern for the prison officers' unions.

They have called for immediate government intervention, citing fears of further escalations.

The situation was eventually brought under control, but it highlights ongoing issues within the Italian prison system, including understaffing and overcrowding.