Carapelle River used as illegal open‑air landfill in Manfredonia, Italy

Environmental watchdog Civilis reported that the Carapelle River near Manfredonia has become a massive illegal dump site. More than 100 tonnes of waste—including used clothing, shoes, bags, automobile wrecks, tires, construction debris and discarded furniture—have been found along a five‑kilometre stretch of the river between Orta Nova and Manfredonia.

Civilis commander Giuseppe Marasco alleges the waste originates from a local company that collects used garments and accuses unknown parties of using the river as a disposal zone. The association has called on the Foggia prosecutor’s office, the Forest Carabinieri and the regional environmental agency (ARPA Puglia) to launch investigations, seize the area, carry out remediation and install video surveillance to prevent further illegal dumping.