Naples – The fight against drug dealing continues in the Scampia neighborhood. Yesterday morning, the State Police dealt another blow to the local drug market, arresting a 34-year-old Neapolitan man, already known to law enforcement, who was caught red-handed while running a traveling "piazza" on Via Calogero.
The stakeout and the blitz
The operation was launched as part of the Scampia Police Station's routine patrols. Officers, mingling throughout the neighborhood for discreet surveillance, focused their attention on the man's suspicious movements.
The 34-year-old was seen approaching a building wall and removing a package from a sock hidden inside a crack in the wall, then quickly handing it to a waiting buyer.
The hiding place in the wall
The immediate intervention of the police prevented any escape attempts. During the search, the officers recovered the sock-like stash, discovering a veritable assortment of hard drugs ready for sale. Inside, they found: 18 doses of cocaine (approximately 12 grams); 24 packages of heroin (approximately 16 grams).
In addition to the drugs, the pusher was found in possession of 715 euros in cash, divided into small denomination banknotes, which investigators believe to be the proceeds of the morning's illicit activity.
The 34-year-old was arrested on charges of possession with intent to distribute narcotics. The buyer, however, was identified and reported to the Prefecture as a user: he was subject to the administrative fine provided by law.
It seems like a necessary operation, but there are still too many gaps in the system. The officers intervened correctly, but the situation remains unstable and repeat offenders continue; more continuity and presence among residents is needed.