Italian police and Carabinieri arrest eight in Palermo mafia extortion probe

Eight suspects were detained in Palermo following a coordinated operation by the State Police, Carabinieri and the National Antimafia Directorate. The arrests target a criminal network linked to a surge in mafia‑related extortion and intimidation since November 2025 in the San Lorenzo area, which is part of the Tommaso Natale mandamento.

The detainees, including Rosario Piazza and Davide Carcione, are accused of placing gasoline‑filled bottles at seaside establishments in Isola delle Femmine, Capaci and other local businesses to force payment of protection money, as well as of attempted homicide. Additional arrests involved Salvatore Modica and Samuel D’Acquisto for related theft and arson offenses. The Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, praised the operation as evidence of the state’s ongoing fight against organized crime. The investigation remains open, with a judge to decide on formal charges.