Naples – Nighttime in Naples has once again become a scene of youth crime. Last night, the State Police arrested two eighteen-year-old Neapolitans, both with criminal records—one of which was for theft—on charges of theft, resisting arrest, and criminal damage.
The episode highlights, once again, the worrying ease with which some young people turn into veritable "night thieves," protagonists of raids that put public safety and order at risk.
The night chase in Rione Alto
It all started in Via Semmola, at Rione Alto, when officers from the Office of General Prevention and Public Rescue responded to a report of a car theft received by the Operations Room. While patrolling Via Vecchia San Rocco, the officers intercepted the reported car: the vehicle was being pushed with its engine off.
At that point, the driver of the stolen car got out of the vehicle to reach the other vehicle. But upon seeing the officers, the driver of the second car suddenly accelerated, crashing into the service car while attempting to flee.
The officers, despite difficulty, managed to catch up with and apprehend the two fugitives. During the search, they were found in possession of several burglary tools. Subsequent investigations confirmed that the stolen car's door and ignition had been tampered with.
For these reasons, the two young men were arrested. The incident raises questions about the growing trend of young people, often with criminal records, engaging in nighttime theft and vandalism, a phenomenon that requires attention and concrete responses from institutions.
This episode highlights how young people are increasingly drawn to crime. It's unusual to hear so much theft and violence in Naples; we need to find an effective solution to stop this.