Rome officials call for national intervention against illegal street vendors

Alessandro Onorato, Rome’s Councilor for Tourism and Large Events, has called on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi to address organized illegal street vending in the city center. Onorato reported receiving threats from individuals operating illegal stalls, describing the groups as structured criminal associations involving large numbers of people.

The issue gained national attention following a television report by Le Iene. Onorato characterized the situation as a widespread illegality that damages Rome’s image, noting that vendors have allegedly threatened local administrators to maintain their presence.

In response to the challenges posed by large crowds, protests, and major sporting events, the Ministry of the Interior (Viminale) is implementing a security strategy in Rome. This plan focuses on isolating violent elements through coordinated actions, including fixed and mobile checkpoints, security corridors, and real-time monitoring. The strategy aims to protect urban mobility and ensure that both demonstrations and sporting events can proceed without significant disruption to the city's infrastructure and transport services.