A major investigation into repeated thefts at a prominent shop inside Rome’s central rail hub has shocked the capital and raised questions about security and accountability within its own law enforcement ranks.
Prosecutors have now listed 44 people in connection with the case, of whom 21 are active-duty officers, including members of the Carabinieri and Polizia di Stato stationed at Termini, suspected of taking clothing, cosmetics and perfumes from the Coin store on via Giolitti in an alleged pattern of organized theft.
The inquiry, led by public prosecutor Stefano Opilio, began after an internal audit uncovered a large inventory discrepancy, reportedly missing goods worth approximately €184,000 — prompting a deeper review of surveillance footage.
According to investigators, the thefts were not random but part of a methodical operation involving coordination between some store staff and certain uniformed officers. The scheme reportedly saw a cassiera (cashier) remove anti-theft tags and prepare stolen items for removal, while the officers allegedly used their positions to avoid detection and facilitate the illicit take.
Among the law enforcement personnel under scrutiny are high-ranking figures, such as a first dirigente in the Polfer (rail police) and several commissioners, alongside various agents and non-commissioned officers, highlighting the breadth of the allegations.
Railway staff, store management, and judicial authorities are continuing the investigation to clarify each person’s role, with prosecutors examining both the extent of the alleged thefts and any wider network that may have supported them.
The development has ignited public debate in Rome about policing and public trust, especially considering that those tasked with maintaining security in one of the city’s busiest and most symbolic locations now stand accused of systemic wrongdoing.
Authorities have not commented on any formal charges yet, and all involved are presumed innocent as the judicial process continues.
