Naples. – A new fire broke out this afternoon in the former NATO area of Gianturco, behind the Naples Business District, sending up a thick column of smoke visible from several neighborhoods across the city.
Two firefighting teams responded to the scene to put out the flames, which affected land near the church of San Giuseppe dei Falegnami.
An area already the scene of suspicious fires
Today's fire brings renewed attention to an area already at the center of similar serious incidents between late June and early July. These serious fires led to the area being cordoned off.
Animal emergency and cat colonies, with dogs at risk. The seized area is home to a registered cat colony, as well as several stray dogs and a nomad camp.
Animal rights groups, as reported by Fanpage, had already requested an exemption to access the restricted area and bring food and water to the animals. The request was formalized with the Public Veterinary Service and the Local Police, who were evaluating a temporary release to ensure the animals' well-being.
The investigations and the precedents
After previous fires, authorities had sealed off the area, but evidently without addressing the root cause. The questions remain: Who is starting these fires? Why in this area? How can we protect the animals that live there?
Firefighters are currently working to put out the flames. The area remains closed to the public. Animal rights groups are awaiting answers so they can rescue the strays.
Yet another fire in this abandoned area has raised alarm: when will this vicious cycle end?
The fire that broke out this afternoon in Gianturco is worrying, especially for the safety of the animals living there. It's important that the authorities find a solution and stop these fires to protect the animals.