Italian anti‑mafia raids uncover prison‑based crime networks in Calabria and Puglia

Recent investigations in southern Italy have revealed that organised crime groups are using penitentiary facilities to coordinate illicit activities, including drug trafficking, extortion and even attempted murder. Seizures of dozens of mobile phones, drugs and other contraband in prisons across Rossano, Cosenza, Vibo Valentia, Reggio Calabria and other institutions demonstrated how inmates maintain links with external mafia structures.

On 12 June, the regional guarantor will present a programme on “Antimafia Penitenziaria” to the special anti‑‘Ndrangheta commission, aiming to strengthen prison security and promote a new culture of legality.

In a related operation, the anti‑mafia directorate in Bari carried out a blitz that resulted in four precautionary measures involving detainees and suspects in Puglia and Calabria. The suspects face charges of attempted homicide, extortion, illegal weapons possession, theft, arson and the illegal introduction of communication devices into prisons, allegedly linked to the Strisciuglio clan. The case centers on the alleged attempted killing of a car‑rental entrepreneur in Palo del Colle and the use of smuggled SIM cards to coordinate criminal actions from inside the prison.

The investigations underscore the authorities’ effort to curb mafia influence inside the prison system and protect public safety.