The closing time was at 5pm, but whoever was in front of the gate of the Vibo Valentia Cemetery at 4.45pm for the classic visit to the dearly departed… had it closed in their faces. Thus expressing their dismay at the situation, especially on a significant day like that of the Commemoration of the Dead. Excessive zeal on the part of employees? To clarify, the citizens called the local police and the officers did not take long to arrive and collect reports from several people. Many with flowers still in their hands found this taxation extremely disconcerting: “what happened is unheard of. Today, then, it is truly out of place…” they commented extremely disappointed.
For their part, the custodians objected that the closing siren sounds at that time to invite visitors to head towards the exit…. The rigidity shown led to a series of complaints (including for “abuse of office”) from visitors. Among them also Francesca Pascale (doctor of law) who assisted the citizens who remained closed inside the sacred structure, ready to also contest the “interruption of public service”. In short, the early closure created inconvenience and controversy. The episode, in fact, sparked reactions and discussions not only among those present, as the news immediately spread on social media and immediately raised questions about the management and the way in which the situation was addressed.