Italy reports low fentanyl use amid theories of mafia influence

Italy has reported very low levels of fentanyl intoxication in 2024, with only two recorded cases compared to over 48,000 in the United States. While this suggests a lack of the fentanyl epidemic seen elsewhere, experts and reports question the cause.

One theory, popularized by author Roberto Saviano, suggests that Italian organized crime groups may be exercising a veto on the drug. Vincenzo Molinese, a commander of a specialized Carabinieri organized crime unit, noted that drugs which kill consumers quickly may be less profitable in the long term, potentially threatening established heroin and cocaine markets.

However, local police state there is no conclusive evidence of a mafia veto. Authorities remain cautious, noting that low consumption rates could change quickly. Recent concerns have been raised following the disappearance of 80 doses of fentanyl from the Ospedale Israelitico medical center in Rome.