A Mickey Mouse mascot is accused of pulling a knife on tourists who refused to pay after they posed for pictures with him.
The person, dressed as the popular Disney character, apparently hangs out in Via Toledo – a tourist hotspot in Naples, Italy – and encourages people to have their photos taken alongside him.
He then allegedly asks for money and if they refuse makes threats.
According to Local MP Francesco Emilio Borelli, there are videos on social media where tourists and locals claim the mascot has been seen carrying a knife, and at least one report that he threatened someone with it.
Mr Borrelli has now sent a dossier on the individual to police.
He said: ‘We are getting many reports on this subject who, disguised as Mickey Mouse, threatens and extorts money from tourists and citizens who take pictures with him.
‘In some videos, users claimed that the man is also armed with a knife.’
He added: ‘We cannot allow people like this to act undisturbed in the tourist areas of the city, damaging the image of Naples and creating a climate of fear between citizens and visitors.
‘We have received several reports and videos that show worrying attitudes, including an alleged episode of threat with a weapon.
‘I want an investigation to get to the facts and if the allegations are confirmed he will be caught and dealt with.’
Borrelli is calling for ‘mouse trap’ patrols to catch the suspect red-handed.
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He said: ‘Naples cannot be hostage to those who think they can do just as they like without any respect for the law.’
One woman posted on social media to say she and her family had their picture taken with the mascot.
She added: ‘I was super excited and had my daughter take a picture with Mickey Mouse.
‘Only now have I discovered that he goes around with a knife and take its out on anyone who doesn’t give him money. Thank god we escaped.’
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