The transfers of mafiosi and terrorists to Sardinia end up in the British press, and a political controversy ignites, with the Five Star Movement speaking of "damage to its image abroad" caused by the government's decision.
The Times and the Sun have described Sardinia as the new “Devil's Island” , the island chosen to host some of Italy's most dangerous prisoners.
The Sun's article, which focuses on the tourism link between Sardinia and the British, is particularly alarmist: " British holiday hotspot dubbed 'Devil's Island' as 88 of Italy's most dangerous mafia bosses and terrorists moved to new jail," the headline reads. And in the opening paragraph, it highlights how dozens of Italy's most notorious mafia bosses and terrorists have been transferred to a prison in a "popular British tourist destination," raising "serious security concerns." The newspaper thus highlights the link between Sardinia and British tourism, which contributes significantly to the island's economy.
The Times headlined: “ Arrival of mafia prisoners 'turning Sardinia into Devil's Island' .” The article, which reconstructs the arrival of the prisoners and the reasons for it, reports President Todde's concerns and the clash between the Region and the Government, also giving space to the response of Undersecretary Balboni.
«An enormous and unacceptable damage to Sardinia's image», thunders the island's Five Star Movement , expressing «indignation at an image that directly affects a land known throughout the world for its sea, environment, culture and tourism».
"For years," reads a statement from the Five Star Movement, "Sardinia has worked and invested to build an international reputation. Now associated with mafia bosses, terrorists, and harsh prison sentences, the government's decision is changing the way the island is portrayed outside Italy. ."
