Italy issues sentences in major anti-mafia trials

Italian courts have released verdicts in two major anti-mafia investigations involving organized crime networks.

In the Echidna trial held at the Ivrea Court, judges addressed 'Ndrangheta' infiltration into public contracts for the A32 Torino-Bardonecchia highway. Nine defendants faced trial, resulting in significant prison sentences for members of a local cell in Brandizzo linked to the Nirta and Pelle clans. Giuseppe Pasqua received 15 years and 10 months, Domenico Pasqua 14 years and 6 months, and Michael Pasqua 6 years and 8 months. Roberto Fantini, former CEO of Sitalfa, was acquitted of charges regarding external association with the mafia.

Separately, the Agrigento Court finalized rulings regarding the 'Kerkent' operation, which targeted a criminal group led by boss Antonio Massimino. The investigation, launched in 2019, aimed to dismantle a criminal holding involved in drug trafficking. Angelo Cardella was sentenced to 13 years for his role in financing the group and providing logistical support. Other defendants, including Francesco Luparello and Angelo Iacono Quarantino, were acquitted as the charges against them were not sustained.