In a sweeping crackdown on organized crime, Italian authorities have arrested 25 individuals suspected of being part of the ‘Ndrangheta mafia, a powerful criminal institution with roots in Calabria. the operation, spearheaded by the Anti-Mafia District Directorate of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Brescia, targeted a network operating in the Brescia area.
The suspects face a range of charges, including extortion, arms and drug trafficking, receiving stolen goods, usury, tax crimes, and money laundering. Authorities also allege involvement in mafia-political electoral exchanges.
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The operation, which involved State Police investigators and guardia di Finanza soldiers, resulted in the seizure of over €1.8 million and the execution of search warrants in Brescia, Reggio Calabria, milan, Como, Lecco, Varese, Verona, Viterbo, and treviso.
“The woman ‘would be treated by the association too ensure that she would have contact with the comrades who were kept in prison’,” court documents state.
Among those arrested is Sister Anna Donelli,a nun accused of facilitating communication between imprisoned members of the ‘Ndrangheta and their associates on the outside.
“If you need something inside, she’s one of us,” one of the arrested individuals reportedly said in a recorded conversation.
Giovanni Francesco Acri, a former city councilor for the Brothers of Italy party in Brescia, was also placed under house arrest as part of the operation. Acri had previously been implicated in another judicial investigation.
This latest crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by italian authorities to dismantle the ‘Ndrangheta’s vast criminal network and its influence across the country.
The ‘Ndrangheta, considered one of the world’s most powerful criminal organizations, has expanded its operations beyond Italy, engaging in drug trafficking, money laundering, and other illicit activities globally.
A Brazilian man,known locally as ”Er Brasiliano,” has been arrested in Rome on charges of aggravated violence against his girlfriend. The incident, which left the woman with a broken arm, has sent shockwaves through the community.
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According to reports, the altercation took place in the Italian capital, where the couple resided. “He hit me with a stick,” the victim recounted, her voice trembling with emotion. ”He broke my arm.”
The severity of the woman’s injuries prompted immediate intervention from authorities. Police swiftly apprehended “er Brasiliano,” who now faces serious legal consequences for his alleged actions.
This case has sparked outrage and condemnation, highlighting the urgent need to address domestic violence. Local organizations are calling for increased awareness and support for victims.
## ‘Ndrangheta Crackdown: An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Maria Rossi
**World Today News:** Dr. Rossi, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Italy has seen another notable blow struck against organized crime with the recent arrests of 25 individuals suspected of being part of the ‘Ndrangheta. can you help our readers understand the importance of this operation?
**Dr. Maria Rossi:** This operation is undoubtedly a victory for Italian law enforcement. The ‘Ndrangheta is one of the most powerful and wealthy criminal organizations in the world, with its influence stretching far beyond Italy’s borders.
Disrupting their network in Brescia, a city not traditionally considered a stronghold of the ‘Ndrangheta, underlines the organization’s adaptability and reach. This arrest sends a clear message that no region is immune to their corrupting influence.
**WT News:** The charges against these individuals are extensive, ranging from extortion to money laundering and even alleged involvement in manipulating elections. What does this tell us about the ‘Ndrangheta’s modus operandi?
**Dr. Rossi:** The ‘Ndrangheta has been incredibly triumphant precisely because they are not a one-dimensional criminal network. They are involved in anything that brings profit – from conventional mafia activities like drug trafficking and extortion to infiltrating legitimate businesses,manipulating financial markets,and even influencing political processes.
These arrests highlight how deeply ingrained they are in Italian society, manipulating legal structures to advance their criminal enterprises.
**WT News:** The operation involved cooperation between the State Police and the Guardia di Finanza. How crucial is this type of inter-agency collaboration in combating organized crime?
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely crucial.
The ‘Ndrangheta is a complex and complex organization with vast resources and international connections.It requires a multi-faceted approach to dismantle such a network.
The collaboration between different law enforcement agencies allows for pooling expertise and resources, leading to a more complete and effective strategy. This case exemplifies how vital successful investigations and prosecutions are.
**WT News:** What can we expect in the weeks and months ahead as this case progresses?
**Dr. Rossi:** We can expect a thorough inquiry and prosecution of those arrested. It is likely that further arrests will be made as investigators uncover the full extent of the ‘Ndrangheta’s operations in brescia.
This case also underscores the ongoing struggle against organized crime in Italy. The fight is far from over, and it requires constant vigilance and unwavering commitment from law enforcement and the entire society.
WT News: Dr. Rossi, thank you for your insightful analysis. We appreciate your time.
**Dr. Maria Rossi:** You’re welcome. Let’s hope this operation serves as another step towards dismantling these perilous criminal organizations and building a safer italy for all.