During the New Year's Eve celebrations, Naples witnessed alarming injuries linked to fireworks, with reports indicating 36 individuals were hurt throughout the night. Stray bullets also caused concern, affecting two individuals, though their conditions are not severe. Among the injured, eight minors were reported, five of whom are between the ages of one and twelve, but once again, their conditions remain stable.
This year, the celebrations were marked by widespread use of fireworks, leading to various incidents across the region. The challenge of illegal fireworks particularly underscored the festivities, with law enforcement busy ensuring public safety. Just hours before the New Year, local authorities reported significant seizures of illegal fireworks around Naples and nearby provinces.
According to ANSA, the police arrested a 48-year-old man from Castellammare di Stabia for the illegal possession of explosives. During searches, they discovered ten handmade explosive devices. The authorities have also been proactive, detaining two men aged 35 and 36, respectively, for selling fireworks from unauthorized stalls.
Throughout Naples, law enforcement has increased efforts to curb the dangers posed by illegal fireworks, seizing large quantities and making numerous arrests. Reports indicate over 300 illegal fireworks were confiscated from makeshift markets, showcasing the persistent issue of unregulated fireworks during holiday celebrations.
Despite these alarming statistics, celebrations were remarkably different just north of Naples, with Milan's festivities proceeding without major incidents. There, local authorities reported no severe injuries among the crowd of over 20,000 gathered at the Duomo, which has become the focal point for such festivities.
The City of Milan’s New Year’s Eve was marked by safety and enjoyment, with local police managing to keep the peace without major disruptions or significant injuries reported. Instead, only four individuals sought medical assistance for minor injuries caused by fireworks, highlighting the different atmospheres between the two cities.
The disparity between the celebrations showcased the stark differences affecting communities within Italy, particularly when illegal fireworks were at play. Firefighters reported almost 900 response calls related to fireworks across the country — approximately 179 more than the previous year.
This led to extensive operations for the local fire brigades, especially across Lombardy, where incidents surged compared to previous New Year's celebrations. Reports indicated fires erupted on balconies, rubbish bins, and rooftops triggered by fireworks, stressing the importance of public safety during such festivities.
With the alarming rise of injuries during New Year’s Eve, authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and report illegal fireworks sales. Efforts to regulate and control the distribution of fireworks remain imperative for safety during future celebrations. The community has faced the repercussions of this reckless behavior, with 36 individuals bearing the brunt of this year's excesses.
Moving forward, it's clear—ensuring the safety and enjoyment of festivities hinges on the community’s willingness to report illegal activities and the law enforcement's ability to make decisive responses. The goal remains for celebrations to be joyous occasions, unmarred by incidents of injury.