NAPLES – Nine shops, nine plaques, a clear message: in Ponticelli the pizzo is not paid: a courageous gesture that breaks the silence and challenges organized crime in one of the most difficult neighborhoods in the eastern outskirts of Naples, the scene of constant tensions between clans.
In the heart of Via Madonnelle, the community responded with a "walk of legality", a symbolic procession that saw institutions, law enforcement, anti-racket associations and citizens side by side. An initiative that is part of the project "Together against racketeering and usury", funded by Campania region with the aim of strengthening the safety net for those who decide to rebel against extortion.
"The presence of these merchants and citizens is a strong signal."Said Mariagrazia Nicolo, extraordinary anti-racketeering commissioner.
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Alongside the traders they marched Mario Morcone, regional councillor for Legality, Antonio De Iesu, municipal councilor, Sandro Fucito, President of the Municipality, Luigi Ferrucci, national president of the Fai, and Rosario D'Angelo, regional coordinator of Fai. "The anti-racketeering walk serves to demonstrate that those who report are not left alone.", Ferrucci underlined. "The institutions are there, but it's essential that the community also supports those who had the courage to rebel.".
The shopkeepers who displayed the plaque were given a flyer with a clear message: "Now you know: you can choose not to submit to the mortification of extortion. At your side there is a network ready to support you and show you the right steps to free yourself from the anguish of extortionists and loan sharks.".
A positive signal also comes from the complaints front: approximately 40 requests for access to the Fund for victims of racketeering and usury since the beginning of the year, an increase compared to the previous year. However, the commissioner Nicolò highlighted a critical issue: Reports of extortion remain significant, but those of usury are still few. It's crucial that victims find the courage to report. The State is there and leaves no one behind..
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