Twitter removes rape video of Ukrainian woman shared by Italy PM hopeful Giorgia Meloni
After Giorgia Meloni, prime ministerial candidate for Ukraine, shared a video showing a Ukrainian woman being raped in Italy by a migrant, it was removed from Twitter.
Far-right leader and candidate for Italy's next Prime Minister, posted the blurred video late Sunday, saying that she couldn't remain silent in the face "this atrocious episode sexual violence".
Ms Meloni explained via Twitter that she shared the clip which was originally published on an online newspaper website in solidarity with the victim, condemn the events and demand justice.
But, her political rivals as well as human rights activists criticized her for sharing the video without her consent.
Twitter took down the post on Tuesday morning and Ms Meloni did not respond immediately.
It was taken in Piacenza, a northern city. Local authorities claim that the 55-year old woman was attacked on a sidewalk by an asylum seeker from Guinea early Sunday morning.
The man was confirmed by police and taken into custody as the investigation continues.
More information about Italy
The video was captured by someone from a flat that overlooked the street. Images were later blurred before being posted online. However, the victim's cries can be heard in the audio.
Italian authorities stated that they are investigating how the video was made public.
Piacenza prosecutor Grazia Prella stated that videos showing the criminal episode were being widely distributed in the media.
More Sky News:
Why Mario Draghi's fall will concern many Western leaders
The state watchdog charged with protecting personal data stated that it is also investigating "possible responsibilities" of those who have (posted it) for different reasons and purposes.
Ms Meloni, her rightist allies and the top polls before a 25 September national elections are widely expected to win power.
The party of Her Brothers of Italy looks poised to win the most seats in parliament. This would put her in pole position for becoming Italy's first woman prime minister.