Caivano – The State is reacting firmly to the intimidation suffered by Father Maurizio Patriciello. Following the delivery of a bullet to the priest during Mass over the weekend, the Provincial Committee for Public Order and Security, meeting at the Prefecture in Naples, ordered the immediate strengthening of protective measures for the parish priest, a symbol of the fight against crime in Caivano's Parco Verde.
The new provisions will not only concern Don Patriciello himself, but will also extend to his church of San Paolo Apostolo and other "symbolic places" in the area.
“Essential” protection for the fight against crime
The Prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, used clear words to define the gravity of the incident and the need for an immediate response.
"The incident that occurred in the church is extremely serious. Each of us must feel responsible and united with Don Maurizio Patriciello , because here we must go beyond solidarity," declared the Prefect. Di Bari then clarified the rationale for the increased state intervention: "The protection of Don Patriciello is an essential requirement for continuing the fight against crime in that area."
While not specifying operational details—such as the possible use of metal detectors—the Prefect assured that the measures will be implemented while balancing two fundamental principles: "Freedom of worship on the one hand and the protection of the person of Don Maurizio Patriciello on the other."
Don Patriciello: "witness" in the crosshairs
The intimidation, which saw an unknown person hand over the bullet to the priest during the Eucharistic celebration, is considered the direct consequence of his relentless commitment.
The Prefect of Bari emphasized how the priest is a "witness of our times in a particular place" who managed to denounce "the widespread illegality in that part of the territory, distinguishing dishonest people from honest ones." Inevitably, this courageous action brought him "into the crosshairs" of organized crime.
The decisions taken at the Prefecture followed a technical coordination meeting of the provincial police force leaders. Some reinforcement activities, the Prefect specified, began "just one minute after this regrettable, extremely serious, and deplorable event."
Caivano, a model for export
The institutions' final appeal is for full solidarity and cohesion. Di Bari concluded by acknowledging Don Patriciello's role that transcends mere symbolism: "There's an awareness that Don Maurizio Patriciello isn't just a symbol; he's the one who created the conditions for that model, the Caivano model, to become a model to be exported to other parts of Italy."
What happened to Don Maurizio is a very serious matter, but I believe the security measures being taken are necessary to protect not only him, but also the entire community of Caivano. Greater attention and security are needed.