Rome Implements 'Red Zone' Security Measures Around Colosseum

<p>Rome has established a "red zone" around the Colosseum following incidents of predatory crime, drug dealing, and a violent confrontation involving approximately 50 individuals, which have raised security concerns at this major tourist site.</p><p>The "enhanced-control zone" encompasses the Colosseum, Imperial Forums, and Colle Oppio, allowing authorities to remove individuals whose violent, threatening, or persistently disruptive behavior poses a public safety risk, according to a six-page order issued by Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini.</p><p>This measure took effect on August 24 and will remain in place for four months, until Christmas Eve.</p><p>Officials noted a "resurgence of disorder" in the area, which they attributed predominantly to groups of young people of non-EU origin, as stated in the order.</p><p>The document highlighted incidents of predatory crimes, fights, and the use of fireworks near the ancient amphitheater, indicating that the explosives may have been employed to distract potential crime victims.</p><p>Authorities reported that the situation escalated on July 1, when Rome Capital police responded to fireworks being set off near the Colosseum. A group of about 50 non-EU nationals allegedly resisted police officers and caused damage to police property, according to the order.</p><p>The group surrounded local police officers, resulting in minor injuries to two officers during what news agency ANSA described as an unauthorized gathering in Piazza del Colosseo.</p><p>Officials also identified Largo Gaetana Agnesi, a terrace overlooking the Colosseum above the Colosseo subway station, as a frequent gathering place for the groups causing security concerns.</p><p>Colle Oppio park was also noted as a problematic area due to individuals potentially engaging in conduct harmful to public safety and order.</p><p>The newly designated zone includes well-known areas of central Rome, such as Piazza Venezia, Via dei Fori Imperiali, Piazza del Colosseo, the Arch of Constantine, and Piazza del Campidoglio.</p><p>Giannini issued the order following a proposal from Rome’s police chief and discussions by the Provincial Committee for Public Order and Security.</p><p>The order indicated that the opening of the Metro C station serving the Colosseum has contributed to security challenges by providing a direct connection between the historic center and neighborhoods in eastern Rome.</p><p>The station and another subway stop within the designated area attract large numbers of commuters and tourists who may be vulnerable to criminal activity, according to officials.</p><p>Under the order, authorities are permitted to remove individuals who engage in violent, threatening, or persistently disruptive behavior and who have been reported for specific offenses in the past five years. These offenses include intentional crimes against persons or property, certain drug offenses, weapons violations, and crimes with hate-crime aggravating circumstances.</p><p>This order is part of a broader initiative to safeguard residents and the influx of tourists visiting the Italian capital. Officials described Rome as facing a complex security situation due to major international and historic events, a heightened geopolitical threat environment, and a continuous influx of visitors.</p><p>Authorities stated that routine patrols, surveillance systems, fixed security posts, and joint "High Impact" operations have yielded results but have not fully mitigated repeated criminal conduct or restored public spaces for residents and visitors.</p><p>Officials also extended a separate security zone in Esquilino, covering streets around Rome’s main Termini train station and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.</p><p>Authorities noted that demonstrations around Termini require ongoing attention, citing the increased number of visitors and pilgrims traveling to Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis is interred, and warning that large crowds can become targets for predatory crimes.</p><p>An earlier enhanced-control designation for the Valle Aurelia area, including the Battistini and Cornelia subway stations, was discontinued after authorities determined that continuing special measures there was no longer necessary.</p><p>Violations of the order could result in criminal charges under Italian law.</p><p>Fox News Digital contacted Rome police for further information.</p>