Casamassima and Turi: Three arrested for mafia-style extortion

Three individuals have been arrested in the municipalities of Casamassima and Turi following an investigation into attempted aggravated extortion using mafia-style methods. The suspects are accused of using verbal threats, physical aggression, and property damage to coerce a victim into providing money and assets, including a vehicle.

According to authorities, the victim was subjected to a state of persistent fear and was even chased in public. One of the suspects, who was already in detention, allegedly continued to issue threats via mobile phone from prison. The investigation also revealed that one suspect filed a false report against the victim to misrepresent the events. The arrests were carried out by the Carabinieri with support from specialized canine and helicopter units.