Mickey Mouse Mascot Threatens Tourists With a Knife If They Don't Pay Him After Taking Photos, Politician Says

A Mickey Mouse mascot in Italy is accused of threatening tourists with a knife should they refuse to pay for photos.

For some time, a street performer dressed as Mickey Mouse has been operating in Via Toledo, a popular tourist destination in Naples, according to Metro. The costumed individual encourages passersby—especially families with children—to take pictures with him.

However, multiple reports suggest that when tourists decline to pay, he resorts to threats, with some witnesses claiming he brandishes a knife.

Concerned about the city's reputation and public safety, local member of Parliament Francesco Emilio Borelli has compiled evidence and submitted it to law enforcement.

Borelli has publicly condemned the alleged extortion, stating that Naples cannot be held "hostage" by individuals who disregard the law. Authorities are now reviewing the reports, and Borelli has urged the police to set up patrols—dubbed "mouse traps"—to catch the suspect in the act.

If the allegations are confirmed, the suspect could face criminal charges for intimidation and extortion.