Naples – Four thousand one hundred euros per capita spent annually on betting, slot machines, scratch cards, and other gambling activities. This shocking figure was recorded in Gragnano, in the Castellammare di Stabia area, propelling the town, known for its pasta and panuozzo, to the top of the Campania rankings for per capita spending on gambling.
These alarming numbers, certified by the Regional Gambling Observatory, prompted the Prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, to convene an extraordinary meeting of the Committee for Public Order and Safety in the heart of the city.
In addition to law enforcement officials, the meeting was also attended by Torre Annunziata prosecutor Nunzio Fragliasso and court president Giovanna Ceppaluni, to develop a structured and shared counter-terrorism strategy.
A social emergency: gambling impoverishes families and fuels suspicions.
Gragnano 's figure— €4.100 per capita annually—is well above the regional average, which stands at around €2.600, and nearly triple the national average of €1.700. This situation is considered a "red alert," with serious repercussions on the social fabric: families reduced to poverty, indebtedness, addiction-related illnesses, and a flow of money that raises questions about possible illicit interests linked to the spread of gambling.
"We need to understand who is fueling this phenomenon and why," Prefect Di Bari emphasized. "The controls will be more targeted and effective." He also announced constant monitoring by the Prefecture and law enforcement, with widespread checks on businesses, gaming halls, and potentially high-risk areas.
Prevention and control: the control room plan
But the fight will not be solely repressive. The prefect emphasized the importance of preventative measures. The meeting also involved the leaders of the Local Health Authority Napoli 3 Sud, particularly the mental health department, with the aim of developing a program of awareness-raising and psychological support. A key role will also be played by schools, parishes, and the third sector, which are called upon to intervene to identify the first signs of distress and educate young people about the risks associated with pathological gambling.
To coordinate the interventions, a permanent control room will be established, which will be able to adapt the strategy based on the evolution of the phenomenon.
"A rapid and concrete response is needed," Di Bari reiterated, "and we are developing it together with the mayor and local institutions." This is a strong appeal, including to the public, not to underestimate a phenomenon that risks becoming a social scourge, capable of destroying individuals, families, and local economies.
I agree with what was said; families are suffering greatly because of this problem. It's important that the authorities do something before the situation becomes even worse. A quick solution is needed.
The situation in Gragnano is truly worrying. The numbers are alarming, and we should all reflect on how gambling can negatively impact people's lives. Action must be taken.