The silent war against tomb raiders continues, and Pompeii is not retreating an inch. On Friday, July 25, the Public Prosecutor of Torre Annunziata, Nunzio Fragliasso, and the Director General of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, signed the two-year extension of the memorandum of understanding that unites justice and culture in the defense of the priceless Vesuvian heritage. This agreement, established in 2019 and already renewed in 2021 and 2023, confirms its role as a national pilot model for combating the illicit trafficking of artifacts and ongoing illegal excavations.
The operations conducted in recent years demonstrate a successful synergy. The Civita Giuliana case is emblematic: here, in addition to the arrest of tomb raiders who looted an ancient suburban villa, world-class scientific discoveries emerged. The same is true for the Villa of the Mysteries , where the demolition of an illegal farmhouse triggered new excavations that confirmed suspicions of clandestine activity. Among hidden tunnels and recovered excavation tools, legality is making inroads even underground.
The renewed protocol provides for the constant exchange of information, timely interventions, targeted excavations, and an updated map of the entire archaeological area. The Public Prosecutor's Office will be able to request urgent intervention from the Park to investigate suspected illegal activities, while judicial police officers will have access to construction sites for seizures and inspections. The goal is twofold: to protect what history has left behind and to restore dignity and identity to territories long violated by unauthorized construction and looting.
"The protection of our historical and cultural heritage is a priority ," reiterated Prosecutor Fragliasso. "Thanks to this collaboration, we have returned exceptionally valuable testimonies to the community." Director Zuchtriegel emphasized the deeper significance of these interventions: "Not just legality and conservation, but also tourism and cultural development for the Great Pompeii."
The fight against tomb raiders is important to safeguard our heritage, but I also believe it's necessary to involve the local community more. Culture must be a shared commitment, not just a matter for the competent authorities.