Biancavilla betting hall closed for a week over mafia-linked patrons

The State Police suspended the operation of a betting hall in the historic centre of Biancavilla for seven days. The measure was ordered by the Questore of Catania under article 100 of the Public Safety Code after repeated inspections showed the venue was a regular meeting point for individuals convicted of serious crimes, including theft, extortion, illegal weapons possession, mafia‑related organized crime, resistance to public officials, illegal mediation and labor exploitation.

Police also identified persons under special surveillance with a residence‑restriction order for mafia offences repeatedly frequenting the establishment. Authorities deemed the continued presence of such clients a concrete risk to public order and safety, leading to the temporary revocation of the venue’s licence.