Sigma Live

Dog Trained to Illegally Dump Trash in Sicily

Published February 21, 2026, 14:07
Dog Trained to Illegally Dump Trash in Sicily

In Catania, Sicily, authorities discovered a dog owner who trained his dog to illegally dump trash in order to avoid surveillance cameras installed to combat illegal waste disposal. Video footage shows the dog carrying a bag of garbage and leaving it on the sidewalk, a practice authorities condemn as antisocial behavior. The owner has been identified and fined. Illegal dumping is a chronic problem in Italy, particularly in the southern region, with significant environmental and economic consequences. In 2023, there was a 66% increase in violations, reaching over 9,300. Authorities are intensifying efforts to combat the phenomenon, using surveillance cameras, wildlife-style traps, and smart control systems. In Palermo, 93% of fines are based on video footage captured by cameras. Legislation provides for fines ranging from €1,500 to €18,000 for illegal dumping, even of household waste, and in some cases, criminal penalties may be imposed. The municipal authorities of Catania emphasized the importance of respecting urban decorum and the environment, stressing that ingenuity cannot justify antisocial behavior. The incident with the dog is a particularly unusual attempt to circumvent control measures.