A planned operation by the Provincial Police to cull animals, including rabbits and nutria, within the Parco dei Giganti in San Giuliano Milanese has ignited fierce public debate. The cull, which took place yesterday evening, was announced on social media by Mayor Marco Segala, who sought to reassure residents by stating, “this was not a shooting spree, nor did it present any danger to the public.” He explained that the area was secured by Carabinieri and local police during the intervention.
Responding to concerned citizens, the mayor stated, “The Provincial Police conducted an intervention to protect public safety in accordance with the regional plan for the containment of invasive species. Following surveys and given the scale of the phenomenon, the Provincial Police deemed it necessary to intervene to protect the stability of the trees and the safety of the park’s users.” Mayor Segala added, “No one likes shooting animals, but the Region, on national directives, identifies invasive species and the methods of intervention. The Metropolitan City then intervenes in the manner it deems most appropriate.”
Many citizen comments, however, condemned the action. One representative comment read, “It remains a horrendous and absolutely cruel method, regardless of whose jurisdiction it is.” Residents also complained about not being notified in advance, with one joking, “Just like Leoncavallo… it was a surprise effect, otherwise—they all would have escaped.”
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