by InTrieste
In a press conference held Saturday morning, Questor Pietro Ostuni presented an overview of the Trieste Police Department’s recent efforts, answering the pressing question: “Can the city of Trieste still be called safe?” This query comes amidst public concern following months of burglaries in the San Vito area and a series of muggings across the city.
Despite these incidents, Ostuni assured residents that Trieste remains a safe and welcoming city. “We have resolved all of the difficult crime situations,” he stated confidently. Highlighting the department’s dedication to maintaining public safety, he emphasized that Trieste continues to be a place where both residents and visitors can feel secure.
Ostuni also noted that in 2024, 1.5 million people passed through Trieste, including tourists, and the police work was consistently spot on. This influx underscores the city’s dual role as a thriving tourist destination and a key transit point.
Beyond crime prevention, the Questura—Trieste’s police headquarters—handles a variety of administrative responsibilities. Ostuni noted that the office is the sole entity responsible for issuing “permessi di soggiorno” (residency permits), a task amplified by the city’s role as a key border hub. “Being a border city, the number of requests is elevated,” he explained.
Ostuni’s colleague added another point of pride for the department: the exceptional speed with which passports are issued in Trieste. “We are one of the fastest cities in Italy to give out passports, just three days,” he remarked, underlining the efficiency of the local administration.
Addressing the issue of unaccompanied minor immigrants, a growing challenge for border cities like Trieste, Ostuni shared plans for outreach initiatives. “We’ll be going to the centers to talk about what legality means, in the hope of preventing future crime situations,” he said. This proactive approach aims to foster understanding and integration among young immigrants, mitigating potential conflicts before they arise.
As Trieste continues to navigate the complexities of being a border city, Ostuni’s reassurances and the police department’s multifaceted initiatives underscore their commitment to both public safety and administrative excellence. While challenges persist, the message from the Questura is clear: Trieste remains a city determined to uphold its reputation as a safe and vibrant community.
