India, May 30 -- Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's lavish Italian wedding may still be weeks out, but it's already stirring controversy in Venice. Locals are voicing outrage, claiming their city is being "held hostage" by the "richest and most dangerous man in the world," as preparations for the high-profile event disrupt their ecosystem.

Set for the weekend of June 24, Bezos and Sanchez's highly anticipated wedding in Venice has sparked frustration among locals. Many Venetians accuse the billionaire of transforming their city into a 'playground' for the ultra-wealthy and are reportedly organizing protests to push back against the disruption.

Their wedding is expected to be decorated with various A-list celebrities and politicians, which ...