Ficuzza commemorates assassination of Colonel Giuseppe Russo

Commemorations were held in Ficuzza to mark the 49th anniversary of the assassination of Lieutenant Colonel Giuseppe Russo and his friend, professor Filippo Costa. The duo was killed in a mafia ambush on August 20, 1977.

Lieutenant Colonel Russo, a recipient of the Gold Medal for Civil Valor, served as the commander of the Carabinieri investigative nucleus in Palermo. He was recognized for his critical role in investigating the Corleonesi clan and uncovering the mafia's influence over public contracts and funding. His investigations also touched upon high-profile cases, including the murder of Peppino Impastato and the death of Eni president Enrico Mattei.

The memorial ceremony included local officials, including the Prefect of Palermo and the Commander of the Carabinieri Legion 'Sicilia', alongside Russo's daughter and niece. The event featured the reading of his medal citation and a religious service.