MA wave of tension and anger erupted in Naples, on Via Riviera di Chiaia, where a demonstration was held, organized by the Green-Left Alliance MP Francesco Emilio Borrelli, with the collaboration of Roberto Russo of the Cellule di Bonifica Sociale association.
In the square, dozens of citizens declare themselves victims of scams orchestrated by Samer Khalifa, the owner of the travel agency dubbed on social media as the "serial scammer of Ferragosto".
The protesters have been clamoring for justice and the return of the money they paid for unused vacation packages. Many of them say they've lost not only money, but also the opportunity to enjoy vacations they'd planned months ago.
The video on social media: accusations and buck-passing
A few hours before the protest, Khalifa posted a video on social media in which he attempted to justify himself. He claimed that the reimbursement money was no longer available to him because a woman—presented as an alleged acquaintance "infatuated with him"—had asked him for exorbitant amounts as reimbursement for investments in her business.
The story sparked outrage among the victims, and was immediately denied by the woman implicated, Carmela, who was present this morning on Via Riviera di Chiaia. "Nothing she says is true," she explained. "They're just lies to discredit me and divert attention from the real responsibilities."
Borrelli: "These are defamatory accusations. He must be held accountable."
MP Borrelli, who echoed the protesters' voices, delivered a very harsh speech: “Once again, Khalifa is hiding behind a cell phone screen, inventing surreal stories, and shifting responsibility onto others, without having the courage to stand up in front of the people he defrauded.
He says he wants to reimburse her, but we seriously doubt that's true. His words only demonstrate a desire to stall for more time, while dozens of families have lost months of savings and seen their holidays ruined. It's clear that this individual must be tracked down by the authorities as soon as possible and held accountable for his actions. A video on social media isn't enough to clear one's conscience: Khalifa must return the money and, above all, face justice.
The next moves
Meanwhile, reports against Khalifa are mounting, and several families have already filed complaints with law enforcement. Today's demonstration was intended to send a clear message: not only a cry of anger over the deceptions they've suffered, but also a plea to the authorities to shed full light on the matter and ensure the victims receive what they deserve.
The "ghost agency" case continues to shake the city, amidst cross-accusations and a growing sense of frustration among those who, by relying on Khalifa, have seen their savings and long-awaited holidays vanish into thin air.
Article published by A. Carlino on August 29, 2025, at 14:35 PM
Comments (1)
This situation is very complex and makes one wonder how people can fall into such traps. I hope the authorities will clarify the situation and that those involved can receive compensation. Justice must prevail.