Rome declares the Colosseum area a red zone amid rising tourist crimes
Italian authorities have designated the vicinity of the Colosseum as a red zone, boosting police and military presence to curb thefts and assaults targeting visitors.
In response to a sharp increase in crimes against tourists around the Colosseum, Rome’s prefect Lamberto Giannini declared the historic zone a red zone, granting authorities the ability to monitor the site around the clock. The plan deploys camouflage-clad soldiers and military vehicles alongside local Carabinieri, creating a visible security perimeter. Police have also been given expanded authority to order individuals to leave the area without needing to provide justification.
The measure follows earlier security upgrades at other high-traffic sites, including Termini railway station, Saint-Peter’s Basilica and Santa Maria Maggiore. Officials say the crackdown aims to address the wave of thefts, street crimes and drug-related activity that have plagued the area. The initiative will remain in effect for an extended period while authorities assess its impact.
