Italy: Major Law Enforcement Operations Target Organized Crime and Usury

Italian authorities have conducted several significant operations targeting organized crime, usury, and environmental offenses across various regions.

In Naples, 13 individuals were arrested on suspicion of mafia association, corruption, and bid-rigging linked to the Veneruso clan. The investigation revealed a mechanism of false invoicing used to create hidden funds through relationships between criminals, public officials, and entrepreneurs in the environmental and healthcare sectors.

In Calabria, the Guardia di Finanza seized approximately one million euros in assets from top members of the 'Ndrangheta clans in Cutro and Cirò. The seizure includes real estate, businesses, bank accounts, and even horses, following investigations into assets disproportionate to declared income.

In Catanzaro, four individuals face house arrest for an aggravated burglary in Squillace, where nine hunting rifles and gold jewelry were stolen. Additionally, in Lecce, five people were sanctioned for usury, with interest rates reportedly reaching 110 percent per annum. The investigation revealed an entrepreneur was forced to surrender cash, luxury watches, and real estate to settle debts.

Other notable actions include the seizure of 3.4 million euros in assets in Bergamo related to tax fraud and the reporting of four individuals in San Prisco for the illegal disposal of hazardous construction waste.