by Nina Vaclavikova
Trieste’s Environmental Police Unit opened 232 cases during the first nine months of 2026, including 55 involving potential criminal offenses and 177 administrative violations, city officials said Monday.
The figures were presented by Caterina de Gavardo, the city’s councillor for public safety, alongside Local Police Commander Walter Milocchi and officers responsible for the environmental unit.
The unit, which became a permanent part of the Trieste Local Police structure in 2011, investigates violations involving environmental protection and animal welfare. Its work includes inspections, administrative enforcement and investigations that can lead to criminal proceedings.
De Gavardo said the unit’s work often takes place away from public attention because investigations may involve judicial authorities and require confidentiality. Officers work with other Local Police units, environmental guards, the regional health authority ASUGI and the Forest Service.
Many investigations begin with reports from residents or environmental protection groups, officials said.
Among the cases highlighted were an investigation into the organized theft of used batteries, completed in July and involving several areas of Friuli Venezia Giulia, and a more recent investigation into the illegal storage of waste.
Milocchi praised the unit’s officers, emphasizing the specialized expertise required for cases involving potential criminal violations and environmental and animal protection.
