Brindisi armored van robbery: Two men face trial

Two men, Giuseppe Russo, 62, and Giuseppe Iannelli, 39, are facing trial following a violent attempted robbery of two Battistolli armored vans in Tuturano, Brindisi. The incident occurred on February 9, when a paramilitary commando of at least eight individuals, wearing silicone masks and armed with assault rifles, intercepted the vehicles on the SS 613 highway. The vans were transporting nearly 6 million euros.

The robbery attempt failed when security guards activated a solidifying foam system that rendered the cash inaccessible. During the escape, the suspects reportedly fired at a Carabinieri patrol, striking a windshield. Russo and Iannelli were apprehended in the countryside shortly after the attack.

Investigators from the Lecce DDA have charged the suspects with attempted robbery, attempted murder of military personnel, and possession of war weapons, including an aggravating factor of mafia-style methods. Evidence includes DNA analysis, wiretaps, and the seizure of a bag containing jammers and masks. Defense lawyers are currently appealing the attempted murder and mafia-related charges, maintaining the defendants' innocence.