Catholic World News News Feature

New head for Vatican police June 05, 2006

Domenico Giani will replace Camillo Cibin as director of security services for the Vatican city-state, and inspector general of the Vatican gendarmerie.

Giani, who was the second in command of the Vatican police force, will replace Camillo Cibin, who is retiring after nearly 35 years. Cibin had become a familiar face for Vatican-watchers, handling security arrangements and accompanying the Pope at public appearances in Rome and abroad.

The Vatican police is a corps of 130 men charged with the security of the Vatican grounds and the enforcement of law within the city-state and on its boundaries. Along with the Swiss Guard, they also ensure the personal safety of the Roman Pontiff.