Naples Prefect Michele di Bari Addresses Rising ATM Assaults
Naples, January 30 – The Prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, has raised concerns over a recent surge in ATM assaults, particularly in the areas of Giugliano and Nola. These incidents, where criminal gangs have used explosives to target cash machines, were the central topic of discussion during a recent meeting of the Public Order and Security Committee.
Prefect di Bari highlighted that this phenomenon is now a national concern, emphasizing the need for reinforced vigilance in the most exposed territories. In response, extraordinary and targeted controls have been implemented in recent days, aimed at disrupting the activities of these criminal groups.
Enhanced Security Measures and Video Surveillance
To bolster preventive and investigative efforts, the Prefect has requested that the mayors of Giugliano and Nola further upgrade their video surveillance systems. This measure is considered crucial for both deterring criminal activity and aiding subsequent investigations. The issue of these assaults had previously been discussed in a Committee meeting held in Giugliano, underscoring the concentrated attention on the northern part of the province.
Despite the alarm surrounding ATM attacks, the Prefecture also reported an encouraging statistic: a 14 percent decrease in the overall crime rate in the Giugliano and Nola areas. While this is a positive development, Prefect di Bari cautioned against complacency, stressing that high-impact crimes such as those against credit institutions can generate significant social concern and therefore require sustained vigilance.
The Broader Context of Crime in the Region
The discussion at the Public Order and Security Committee meeting reflects a broader effort to maintain public safety across the Campania region. While specific types of crime, like ATM assaults, demand immediate and focused attention, the overall trend in reduced criminality is a testament to ongoing law enforcement initiatives.
The Prefect’s call for increased vigilance and enhanced security measures underscores the commitment of local authorities to protect citizens and financial institutions from organized criminal activity. The collaboration between the Prefecture, local municipalities, and law enforcement agencies is deemed essential in tackling these evolving threats.
As investigations into the recent ATM explosions continue, the focus remains on identifying and apprehending the perpetrators, while simultaneously strengthening the security infrastructure to prevent future incidents. The community is urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
