“The island is full of migrants who are drunk and harass people. I receive tens of messages from frightened tourists, hoteliers, traders and restaurateurs who suffer daily,” new major of Lampedusa Totò Martello said.

“We need to close the shelter for migrants. I can’t be accused to be ‘racist’ if I ask to follow the rules!” he continues, Il Sole 24 Ore reports.

Mr. Martello took over Giusi Nicolini, UNESCO prize winner, after winning last election against her in June 2017.