By InTrieste
Italian police said they have identified a Slovenian national suspected of posting a series of defamatory and discriminatory signs at the Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia in Trieste earlier this month.
The incidents began on August 5, when officers from the Digos, the police’s investigative unit, were called to the consulate on Via del Teatro Romano. A paper sign, roughly 20 by 40 centimeters, had been taped to the official plaque outside the building, bearing an offensive and grammatically incorrect insult directed at Slovenians.
Similar handwritten notes, smaller in size, were later discovered outside Trieste’s police headquarters. The messages, written in block capitals, included slogans such as “È un crimine – DD=Nazi” and “Io c’ero! Io l’ho visto! T.”
The following morning, police were again called to the consulate, where another sign had appeared, this time labeling it the “Consulate of Corruption.” On August 11, additional messages resembling those from the previous days were affixed both to the consulate and to the police headquarters.
Investigators said they were able to identify the suspect through security camera footage and stepped-up patrols in the area. According to a statement from Trieste police, the individual, who is known to authorities, appeared motivated by personal resentment toward Slovenian institutions, which he reportedly blamed for failing to support him during a difficult period.
The statement noted that the acts “do not appear to be rooted in xenophobic or ideological motives.” The suspect has been charged with aggravated defamation with discriminatory elements.
Authorities emphasized that the case remains in the preliminary investigation stage, and the suspect’s responsibility will be determined in court. In accordance with privacy regulations, police have not released the individual’s identity.
