SW News: Residents of Florence in Italy were aghast to find that the Nativity Scene set up outside the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in the city was desecrated on the night of the New Year. The statue of the Infant Jesus was found damaged and the act of vandalism sparked outrage.

Cardinal Giuseppe Betori of Florence slammed the act, calling it a vile gesture that offends believers. Security camera footage shows four young men entering the nativity scene and removing the statue of Baby Jesus and taking selfies. One of them was seen holding aloft the statue like a trophy. Later in the morning, it was found in a damaged state with four toes of its right foot broken.

Police are investigating the unfortunate incident. The archbishop said that it is an offence to a popular tradition that is widely spread and shared among people. He added that it is sad that someone could take out the statue of the Infant who is the bearer of peace and love. According to Cardinal Betori, the incident has wounded all Florentines. Florence authorities have also appealed to residents to share any useful information that could be helpful to trace the culprits and bring them to justice.

The Christmas creche, which is exhibited until Epiphany, comprises life-size clay figurines that were handcrafted by Luigi Mariani and donated to the Cathedral.