Naples, May 30 – A swift police operation in Naples led to the arrest of a 20-year-old man, Anir Dogari, of Tunisian origin, shortly after he allegedly snatched a gold necklace from a 62-year-old Belgian tourist. The incident occurred on Thursday evening on Corso Garibaldi, highlighting the rapid response of local authorities.
The Robbery Unfolds Near a Pizzeria
The victim, who was on vacation in Naples, was entering a pizzeria with her companion around 7:45 PM when she was approached by a young man. The assailant forcibly removed her 200-gram gold necklace before fleeing the scene. The victim described the attacker as young, thin, dressed in black, and noted a grey cap and a bandage on his leg.
“He suddenly grabbed my necklace and ripped it off my neck,” the victim recounted to investigators through an interpreter. “It all happened in a few seconds.”
Video Surveillance and a Distinctive Clue Lead to Arrest
The entire incident was captured by surveillance cameras from a nearby pizzeria, whose owners promptly provided the footage to law enforcement. The video clearly showed the distinctive bandage on the fugitive’s leg, and he also lost his grey cap during the escape. Despite a courageous attempt by a 29-year-old pizzeria employee to pursue the thief, the perpetrator initially managed to evade capture.
However, the escape was short-lived. A police patrol intercepted Dogari on Via Lavinaio, still wearing the same clothes from the robbery. The suspect made a final attempt to escape but was ultimately apprehended at the corner of Vico Vetriera Vecchia.
Cash Found, Necklace Believed to be Sold
During a search, officers found 920 euros in cash in Dogari’s black backpack, the origin of which he could not explain. While the necklace was not found on him, investigators believe he had already sold it to one of the many fences in the area or traded it for cash with an acquaintance. The backpack and banknotes were seized as evidence.
Victim Sustains Injuries, Suspect Displays Aggressive Behavior
In addition to the financial loss, the victim sustained head injuries that medical personnel at Ospedale dei Pellegrini estimated would heal within ten days. Investigations into Dogari’s background revealed a history of criminal activity, including numerous aliases and prior arrests for theft and robbery between 2024 and 2026, with existing convictions and restrictive measures against him.
Even after his apprehension, Dogari maintained an aggressive demeanor. He reportedly lashed out at the partition in the police vehicle and, once at the station, began spitting at officers and violently kicking the walls. These actions caused an old wound on his right leg to reopen, leading to bleeding and requiring urgent medical attention from 118 personnel.
Aggravated Robbery and Personal Injury Charges
The Public Prosecutor’s Office in Naples was informed, and Dogari was arrested in flagrante delicto on charges of aggravated robbery and personal injury. He was subsequently transferred to the Poggioreale prison in Naples, awaiting a validation hearing.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by tourists in certain urban areas, but also highlights the effectiveness of surveillance technology and prompt police action in bringing perpetrators to justice. Authorities continue to work towards ensuring the safety and security of both residents and visitors in Naples.
