Men disguised as gladiators, who have themselves photographed with tourists for a fee, cause a stir in Rome time and time again. The police have now arrested three people for extortion. In August and September they allegedly used violence to force holidaymakers to pay them up to 500 euros for photos in front of Rome’s sights.
A tourist from northern Italy reported that the “gladiators” charged 40 euros for a photo. When he refused to pay the amount, he was surrounded by two of the three now arrested. They threatened to beat him up and eventually took 150 euros.
In another incident, the suspects asked an Irish tourist to pay for a photo. When the victim refused, saying he had no money, they forced him to go to the nearest ATM. The victim withdrew 200 euros and gave the money to the men. The three, not satisfied with this, allowed the tourist to go to the ATM again and withdraw another 50 euros.
Battle against “Gladiators”
In recent years, Rome has unsuccessfully tried to limit the number of “gladiators” in front of the Colosseum. They do not pay taxes, criticizes the community. Anyone who wants to pose for tourists as a ‘gladiator’ or ‘centurion’ (ancient Roman officer) in the Colosseum or on the Roman Forum will have to obtain a permit in the future, was a suggestion by the city council, which was never implemented.
Source: Krone
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