Pope Leo visits Italy's 'Land of Fires' as families seek justice for children lost to toxic waste
Pope Leo XIV is visiting the toxic-waste polluted area around Naples, known as the 'Land of Fires', to meet families affected by environmental pollution. These families have lost children to cancer linked to illegal waste dumping by organized crime. The visit aims to raise awareness and seek justice for the victims of this ongoing crisis.
- ▪Families in the area are preparing to meet Pope Leo XIV during his visit.
- ▪The European Court of Human Rights confirmed that mafia dumping has increased cancer rates in the region.
- ▪Bishop Antonio Di Donna noted that approximately 150 young people have died from cancer in Acerra over the past three decades.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onPope Leo visits Italy's 'Land of Fires' as families seek justice for children lost to toxic wasteFamilies in a toxic-waste polluted area around Naples are preparing to meet Pope Leo XIV during a pastoral visitBySILVIA STELLACCI Associated PressMay 23, 2026, 2:46 AM1:12Angelo Venturato talks during an interview with the Associated Press next to photos of his daughter Maria who died at the age of 25 of a cancer he claims to be connected to decades of pollution from illegal waste dumping and burning, much of it linked to organized criminal groups, in the southern town of Acerra, Friday, May 22, 2026.
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