Bomb threats trigger evacuations at around 300 schools across Italy

Around 300 schools across Italy received bomb threats after an anonymous email warned of explosives on their premises, prompting evacuations and security checks, Italian officials said Wednesday, according to ANSA news agency.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said investigations had so far uncovered no evidence of a concrete threat, describing the incidents as apparently part of a strategy to spread alarm and concern.

The email, sent to schools in several cities, claimed that a powerful explosive device had been placed inside a plastic bag and was equipped with a remote trigger.

The message included threats of violence against Italians and was signed by a person claiming to be the leader of a group called the Vilayat of Misoginistan.

Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara said around 300 schools had reported receiving threatening emails, warning that the number could rise further.

He described the incident as a suspected cyberattack, saying the actual risk appeared to be "virtually nonexistent."

Valditara said security services were working to identify those responsible, while the government was coordinating its response.

Meloni added that law enforcement agencies and relevant institutions were closely monitoring the situation.

Government sources also confirmed that security checks had so far uncovered no evidence of a concrete danger.

The incident follows a similar scare in recent days, when an email containing threats was sent to 280 school principals.