Naples prosecutors target Camorra infiltration in high-speed rail contracts

The Naples District Anti-Mafia Directorate has requested precautionary measures for 45 individuals following an investigation into the Naples-Bari high-speed rail construction project. Prosecutors allege that the Camorra mafia infiltrated local businesses to influence public contracts and favor specific companies.

At the center of the investigation is Areco Srl, based in Marcianise. Authorities claim that Pasquale and Camillo Belforte, leaders of the ‘Mazzacane’ group, targeted the company through a system of illicit relationships. Dante Salzillo is accused of acting as a link to the construction supply chain, allegedly facilitating faster payments, subcontracting assignments, and operational simplifications in exchange for cash, luxury watches, dinners, and travel.

The investigation involves 49 total suspects. The alleged scheme allowed the criminal group to strengthen its operational capacity by ensuring that companies linked to the clan could enter public tender procedures and manage construction sites with undue advantages.