Industrial area seized in Sant’Antonio Abate over Sarno River pollution

Authorities have seized a 3,000-square-meter industrial area in Sant’Antonio Abate as part of an ongoing investigation into the pollution of the Sarno River. The site is operated by DM Technology Srl, a company providing urban hygiene services for various municipalities.

The investigation, coordinated by the Public Prosecutor's Office of Torre Annunziata and involving the Coast Guard and Carabinieri, revealed that the company was allegedly involved in the uncontrolled deposit of waste, illicit waste management, and illegal discharge of effluents. The area was used to park waste collection vehicles, such as compactors and sweepers, and included a warehouse for equipment.

During inspections, investigators found that vehicles were being washed with high-pressure cleaners, and the resulting wastewater was directed into a collection system. However, the onsite purification plant was found to be powered off and in poor condition. Using eco-friendly tracer substances, authorities determined that wastewater was bypassing the treatment plant and flowing directly into the public sewage system. Additionally, approximately two cubic meters of sewage sludge were found deposited on the ground and in a tank without proper containment or covering.