POPE FRANCIS VISITS MAFIA TERRITORY

Pope Francis visited the mafia territory of Naples (Italy) on Saturday amidst tight security. The pontiff who arrived the crime ridden area in a popemobile was greeted by a large crowd of children and young people. He told the large number of residents who came to welcome him that, "corruption stinks, corrupt society stinks, "we all have the potential to be corrupt and to slip into criminality"
The pope last year declared war against organised crime by ex- communicating all Mafiosi from the catholic church.
The pope is expected to hold mass in Piazza del Plebiscito in Naple's historic centre , a stone throw from Gulfor, Naples.
He is also to visit Poggioreale jail which is overcrowded with over 2500 prisoners for a space meant for 1400 people.
According to the Catholic TV 200 television channel, he is to have lunch with 90 of the inmates which will include transexuals, homosexuals, aids sufferers.
The visit will end with a sea front concert of Neapolitan songs performed by youngsters.
The pope will speak on corruption, drug addiction, unemployment, environmental pollution, all ills plaguing the region.

photo credit: AFP