Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini on Sunday defended his decision to move hundreds of migrants out of a southern Italian town widely seen as a model of successful integration as opposition groups accused him of racism.
Riace, a small town in Calabria, Italy's southern toe, has been in the spotlight since its mayor, Domenico Lucano, was arrested this month for allegedly favoring illegal immigration, sparking protests by residents and pro-migrant groups.
Salvini, leader of the right-wing League, celebrated the arrest, and this weekend announced that Riace's mainly African migrants would be moved out and spread around the country.