Over 180 Arrested in Italy During Anti-Mafia Operation

Italian authorities apprehended 181 individuals believed to be affiliated with the mafia in a significant operation, delivering a “hard blow” to Cosa Nostra’s efforts to make a comeback. Read Full Article at RT.com.

Over 180 Arrested in Italy During Anti-Mafia Operation
Italian police have executed a significant raid targeting the Cosa Nostra mafia in Palermo, resulting in the arrest of 181 suspected members, including high-ranking leaders and alleged extortionists. This operation is part of the ongoing initiative to dismantle organized crime in Sicily and curb the mafia's resurgence.

Initiated on Tuesday and coordinated by the Anti-Mafia Directorate in Palermo, the raid involved 1,200 officers. Authorities labeled the arrests as a “hard blow” to organized crime, and in addition to the apprehensions, police seized over 50kg of drugs.

Investigators disclosed that the arrested individuals were affiliated with various mafia clans operating throughout Palermo and its neighboring regions. The suspects face numerous charges, such as mafia association, attempted murder, drug trafficking, extortion, illegal gambling, and weapons offenses.

Cosa Nostra, the infamous Sicilian criminal organization, terrorized Italy during the 1980s and 1990s. Despite years of law enforcement efforts, investigators assert that the group remains active and is working to reestablish its influence.

“The mafia is absolutely active – and is trying to recreate the army of the past,” stated Palermo’s chief prosecutor, Maurizio De Lucia, during a press conference on Tuesday. “There are many young people who are influenced by the old bosses who return.”

Among those detained were mafia leaders who had recently been released from prison and had resumed their roles in managing criminal operations. Authorities revealed that Cosa Nostra has been utilizing encrypted smartphones to evade law enforcement, allowing fugitives to oversee criminal enterprises from a distance.

Officials believe that the operation has greatly hindered Cosa Nostra’s capacity to coordinate criminal activities in Palermo. Nevertheless, they cautioned that the organization continues to strive to fortify its power base in the face of ongoing law enforcement pressure.

“The mafia must be defeated with determination and without any compromise,” emphasized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in a post on X, referring to the overnight arrests as “a very hard blow to Cosa Nostra.”

Meloni commended law enforcement efforts, stating, “Thanks to the Carabinieri and all law enforcement forces who work every day to protect legality and the safety of citizens. The State is there and does not retreat.”

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto affirmed her message, asserting, “We move forward with determination because the mafia can and must be defeated.”

Ian Smith for TROIB News