Rome strongly protests against the release of the owner of a bar in Crans-Montana

Italy reacts to the release of Jacques Moretti, owner of Le Constellation bar in Switzerland, where 40 people, including six Italians, died in a New Year's Eve fire.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called the court's decision "an insult to the memory of the victims" and, together with the foreign minister, ordered the recall of the Italian ambassador from Bern.

The Italian government expressed outrage that Moretti was released despite the risk of flight and tampering with evidence. The court conditioned his release on bail of 200,000 francs on daily reporting to the police.

The victims' lawyers criticized the move as incomprehensible and fear that key evidence could disappear.

The Morettis expressed regret and say they will cooperate with investigators.

(reuters, pir)