In a shocking incident at the Romics International Festival held in Rome, popular YouTuber Cicciogamer89, known off-screen as Mirko Alessandrini, was the victim of a brazen theft. On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the last day of the festival, a thief attempted to make off with a valuable deck of Pokémon cards worth approximately 1,200 euros.
The theft occurred in the afternoon while Alessandrini was meeting fans at his booth. The thief, identified as 20-year-old Natalino Diego C., reached over the barriers of the booth to snatch the coveted "Eclissi Cosmica" series cards. However, the theft did not go unnoticed. Alessandrini quickly reacted to the situation, pursuing the thief and alerting the security personnel present at the venue.
Thanks to the swift action of Alessandrini and the security team, the suspect was apprehended shortly after the theft. Police from the San Paolo district arrived on the scene and arrested Diego on charges of theft with dexterity, a legal term that refers to stealing with skill and cunning.
The incident unfolded during the 34th edition of Romics, a festival that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, including cosplayers, comic book enthusiasts, and gamers. This year's event took place from April 3 to April 6 at the new Fiera di Roma, a venue well-known for hosting large-scale events.
After his arrest, Diego was presented before the judge of the sixth criminal section of the court in Rome, where public prosecutor Mauro Masnaghetti oversaw the proceedings. The judge validated the charge against Diego, who was reported in a state of freedom, meaning he was not held in custody after the hearing.
Mirko Alessandrini, better known as Cicciogamer89, has made a name for himself in the world of online content creation. Born in Rome in 1989, he launched his YouTube channel in 2012, quickly gaining popularity for his engaging gameplay videos, particularly those featuring Minecraft and Slenderman. His channel has since diversified to include vlogs, cooking segments, and even an autobiography.
In 2016, Alessandrini received the prestigious Golden Button award for surpassing one million subscribers. He continues to connect with his audience through various platforms, including Twitch, where he streams live content. His influence extends beyond gaming, as he has also authored several cookbooks and manuals, demonstrating his versatility as a creator.
The theft incident at Romics serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures, even in seemingly secure environments. Despite the unfortunate event, Alessandrini's quick thinking and the support of security staff ensured that the situation was resolved swiftly.
While the theft of such a valuable item could have dampened the spirits of many, Alessandrini's proactive approach showcased his dedication to his fans and his collection. The Pokémon card deck, a prized possession for many collectors, highlights the passion that drives both fans and creators in the vibrant world of gaming and pop culture.
As the dust settles on this incident, it remains to be seen how it will affect future events at Romics and the security measures that will be put in place to protect attendees and their valuable possessions. The festival has long been a staple in the comic and gaming community, and incidents like this underscore the need for vigilance in crowded spaces.
Overall, the quick resolution of the theft at Romics not only restored Alessandrini's prized collection but also reinforced the sense of community and support that exists within the fan culture. As fans continue to flock to events like Romics, the hope is that such incidents remain rare, allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities without fear of theft or disruption.
This incident highlights the importance of security at large gatherings, especially those that attract high-profile individuals. Fans and creators alike should feel safe and secure while celebrating their shared interests in environments designed for enjoyment and creativity.
