Arson fire at Camaldoli extinguished after over 24 hours

Naples. After a grueling battle lasting over 24 hours, firefighters finally managed to put out the massive blaze that had been raging from Camaldoli Hill and had the entire city of Naples on edge.

The fire, which was started deliberately as confirmed by initial investigations, devastated a large area, also affecting the Soccavo and Pianura areas and covering the city with a blanket of ash.

During the night, Mayor Manfredi personally went to the site of the huge fire to monitor the situation and support the rescuers involved in the extinguishing operations.

Three firefighting planes, along with numerous teams on the ground, worked tirelessly to tame the flames, which, fanned by the wind, had spread rapidly.

Controversy over the rescue intervention

Despite the happy ending, the fire sparked considerable controversy over the promptness of the rescue operations. According to some witnesses, the blaze broke out as early as 10:30 a.m., while the first firefighters arrived only several hours later, at 4:00 p.m.

The competent authorities are examining the accusations to ascertain any responsibilities.

Investigations underway to identify those responsible

Meanwhile, investigations continue to identify those responsible for the arson attack.

The fire caused considerable inconvenience to citizens

In addition to the environmental damage, the fire caused significant disruption to residents, with the closure of roads, schools, and several businesses. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or serious injuries, but fear and concern among the population were palpable.

"The situation, from what the firefighters tell me, appears critical but not dangerous," said the prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, in response to journalists' questions about the fire that has been raging in the Camaldoli area since yesterday.

There's no shortage of controversy, which the prefect tries to nip in the bud: "Our primary need is to protect people's health and safety," he states. "Since last night, we've been working with the police to separate the fire area from the residential area. Since this morning, two aircraft have been operating in the affected area, along with eight firefighting teams and volunteers.

I thank the Region, the Municipality and above all the firefighters and I find myself denying some news, such as the rumours according to which the nuns of the Camaldoli they would have gone away."

"The situation is worrying," Di Bari continued. "The emergency response center was activated immediately and is monitoring the situation from the Prefecture with all its resources deployed. The response being provided is the most appropriate possible: the flames are not yet out, but I expect them to be within the next few hours."

Some residents also protested the nighttime interventions: "The firefighters' nighttime operations," the prefect said, "immediately appeared complicated. This is why the teams deployed were stationed closest to the flames and operated from there."