Naples oncology drug theft investigation leads to two arrests

Two individuals have been arrested following an investigation into the theft of life-saving oncology medications from the Fondazione Pascale National Cancer Institute in Naples. The theft, which occurred in September 2025, involved the loss of drugs valued at approximately 822,236 euros, including experimental molecules not yet available on the market.

Investigators from the Carabinieri Napoli Vomero company determined that the heist was a coordinated effort. One suspect, a 47-year-old security guard, is accused of facilitating the crime by remotely deactivating the alarm system. The second suspect, a 45-year-old man, is accused of being part of a criminal group specializing in thefts from hospital pharmacies across Italy.

The investigation utilized video surveillance, environmental interceptions, and searches to reconstruct the incident. One suspect has been placed under house arrest, while the other is in custody.