Naples – Mappatella beach , one of Naples' most popular beaches, is experiencing an unprecedented security crisis.
In just 48 hours, four thefts involving tourists have occurred, sparking alarm among beachgoers and protests from local politicians. This toll risks tarnishing the city's image in the heart of the tourist season.
The latest incident, which occurred yesterday afternoon at Rotonda Diaz, involved two tourists. According to the State Police's reconstruction, a 22-year-old Libyan, an illegal immigrant with a criminal record for theft, took advantage of their moment of distraction on the beach to steal a backpack.
Inside were personal effects, a cell phone, a pair of headphones, and €150 in cash. The man was located by law enforcement shortly afterward on Viale Dohrn, arrested, and reported, while the stolen goods were returned to their rightful owners.
However, this arrest does not appear to be an isolated case, but the latest in an alarming series. A few hours earlier, on the same beach , two other tourists had their clothes stolen after leaving them unattended on the sand while swimming. The day before, a young Russian couple had suffered the same fate.
Political complaint: "The situation is out of control, we need tourist police."
The alarm was raised by Francesco Emilio Borrelli, MP for the Green and Left Alliance, who, after an on-site inspection, received numerous complaints from beachgoers. "What should be a showcase for the city is once again becoming yet another symbol of insecurity and anarchy," Borrelli stated.
"Four robberies in two days are proof that the situation is completely out of control," the MP added, calling for structural interventions, not just occasional crackdowns. His proposal is clear: "We need permanent police presence and the establishment of a fully-fledged tourist police force to constantly monitor the most vulnerable locations. Naples cannot continue to offer this spectacle; robbed tourists never forget these experiences."
The appeal highlights an urgent need: to protect not only citizens, but also a vital sector for the Neapolitan economy, tourism, by ensuring safety and decorum.
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I read about the security emergency at Mappatella and I'm very concerned about this situation. Thefts from tourists are unacceptable; something concrete must be done to improve security. It's important for tourists to feel safe.