PREDAPPIO – Eight people were investigated for performing the Roman salute and for displaying fascist symbols at the commemorative ceremony on Sunday of Benito Mussolini’s march on Rome, police said.

 The centenary event, organized at the Mussolini family crypt in Predappio, involved a procession where participants clad in black shirts and fezzes sang odes to the dictator as well as songs from the fascist era. Two of the Duce’s relatives attended the event which allegedly attracted 4,000 people, his great-nieces Vitorria and Orsola Mussolini, who praised the numerous achievements of the dictatorship. 

 Mirco Santarelli, regional president of the Arditi, had asked those present to honour Mussolini only by placing a hand on their heart, as performing Roman salutes would risk condemnation. It is clear that this appeal was not fully heeded. 

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