Italian authorities seize 35 million euros in ‘ndrangheta crackdown

Italian authorities have conducted a major crackdown against the ‘ndrangheta, resulting in five arrests and the seizure of assets valued at over 35 million euros. The operation, carried out by the Guardia di Finanza, targeted a criminal network operating in the areas of Melicucco and Tropea.

Investigators revealed a complex system involving the manipulation of Common Agricultural Policy (PAC) funds. The group allegedly used shell companies and strawmen to infiltrate the agricultural and real estate sectors. Seized assets include 32.6 million euros in real estate and 1.6 million euros across 15 agricultural companies, spanning locations in Calabria and Tuscany.

Charges against the suspects include criminal association, fraud in public auctions, fraudulent transfer of values, money laundering, and self-laundering.