The Vatican City State has toughened sanctions for those who try to illegally enter its territory in areas where free access is not allowed. Source: CNA.
In a decree issued by the Holy See, the monetary sanctions and prison sentences for those who violate the strict security regulations of Vatican City have been considerably increased.
The document, signed by Cardinal Fernando Vérguez Alzaga, president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, provides for monetary fines ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 euros (about $A16,500 to $41,300) and prison sentences ranging from one to four years.
These fines will apply especially to those who enter by means of violence, threats, or deception, bypassing border controls or security systems.
In addition, those who enter with expired permits or do not meet the established requirements will receive administrative sanctions ranging from 2000 to 5000 euros.
The decree emphasises that the penalties can be increased if the crime is committed with firearms, corrosive substances, by a person in disguise, or by several people together. Likewise, if illegal access is made in a vehicle, the penalty can increase by up to two-thirds.
The document also stipulates that unauthorised overflight of Vatican airspace, including through the use of drones, may be punished with prison sentences from six months to three years in addition to a fine that could reach 25,000 euros.
Anyone convicted of illegal entry will be banned from entering Vatican territory for a period of up to 15 years. If this sanction is breached, the offender may be punished with a prison sentence of one to five years.
The Vatican City State includes areas with free access, such as St Peter’s Basilica or the Vatican Museums.
However, there are other entrances flanked by high walls, such as Porta Santa Ana, Piazza del Sant’Uffizio, or Porta Perugino, reserved for authorised personnel or visitors with special permits.
FULL STORY
Vatican cracks down on illegal entry into its territory (By Almudena MartÃnez-Bordiú, CNA)