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Hammer-wielding passenger sets fire, smashes desks at Milan airport, apprehended

The incident happened around 11 am local time at Terminal 1 of the Malpensa Airport, resulting in a partial evacuation and disruption of flights.

Though the situation was brought under control quickly, the smoke resulted in sections of the terminal being evacuated. (Photo: Screengrab)

The Malpensa Airport in Milan, Italy, witnessed chaotic scenes on Wednesday after a passenger went on a rampage, smashing check-in desks with a hammer and setting fire to the check-in area.

The incident happened around 11 am local time at Terminal 1 of the Malpensa Airport. In videos posted on social media, a man was seen pouring what appears to be a flammable liquid and igniting a rubbish bin near the check-in area.

He also used a hammer to bang on a wall, smashing check-in desks and information, and a large advertisement screen. Before he could inflict more damage, the attacker was surrounded by other passengers and the airport’s security staff.

🚨 This morning, a young man originally from Mali 🇲🇱 set fire to and smashed the check-in counters with a hammer at Milan Malpensa Airport (Italy)

A serious and dangerous incidentpic.twitter.com/J0kXMTm8mn

— Mambo Italiano (@mamboitaliano__) August 20, 2025

An airport security staff member reportedly suffered minor injuries while trying to apprehend the attacker.

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The suspect is said to be a Malian native living in Italy. It is yet unclear what may have incited the attack inside the airport.

Though the situation was brought under control and the fire was put out quickly, the smoke resulted in sections of the terminal being evacuated and several flight disruptions.

“The situation was quickly brought under control after the arrest of the madman who set fire to and destroyed several check-in desks,” the Lombardy Airports Association said in a statement.

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