Italy arrests seven linked to ATM bomb attacks

Seven men aged 20 to 51 from the province of Foggia were arrested by the Carabinieri of Cerignola and placed in pre‑trial detention. The suspects are accused of aggravated theft using explosive devices, illegal weapon possession, recidivism and money‑laundering after two ATM attacks carried out with the homemade "marmotta" bomb. One attack in Quarrata (province of Pistoia, Tuscany) succeeded, while a second in Vallata (province of Avellino, Campania) was foiled. The group used high‑power improvised explosives, large stolen or rented cars and a defined division of roles among drivers, look‑outs, and operatives. Police recovered partially burned banknotes worth about €17,000 and tools such as three‑point nails and masks. The loot from the two incidents is estimated at roughly €30,000, plus extensive damage to bank facilities. The operation follows earlier arrests of five alleged members on 26 January 2026 and is part of a broader investigation involving 18 suspects, with preventive patrols in central‑southern Italy credited with averting at least ten further attempts.