Italian metal‑scrap dealer arrested in nationwide waste‑trafficking probe

The Guardia di Finanza carried out a nationwide investigation, dubbed “Scrap Country”, into illegal trafficking of ferrous scrap. Six people were arrested, including the owner of a metal‑materials company based in Gambettola, who is now in custody in Forlì and faces up to six years’ imprisonment. The probe, coordinated with the anti‑mafia directorate of Bologna and regional police units, uncovered a criminal network that bought scrap metal in cash, used false invoices and moved the material through a Pesaro‑Urbino firm before selling it to foundries. Asset seizures totalled more than €12.5 million, comprising bank deposits, property and cash. Investigators identified forged documents worth over €16 million and tax evasion of roughly €22.5 million. Thirteen persons are under investigation across several Italian provinces.