Sigfrido Ranucci attack prompts Rai to suspend Report repeats pending investigation

A bomb exploded outside journalist Sigfrido Ranucci's home in October, injuring him and his daughter. Police arrested four men from Avellino and are investigating the motive. The investigation has focused on businessman Valter Lavitola, who police consider the possible mastermind; three phones and two pen drives seized from his home are being analysed.

Rai has decided to suspend the summer repeats of the investigative program Report as a precaution, stating the move protects a valuable editorial heritage. Ranucci denied any improper influence, saying “Nessuna inchiesta Report condizionata da Lavitola.” The programme’s staff described the suspension as unprecedented censorship, while the Order of Journalists, Usigrai and several journalists have expressed solidarity.

Political reactions are split: Fratelli d’Italia and Lega defend the suspension as justified, whereas the Democratic Party, Five Star Movement, AVS and other parties criticize it as retaliation. Commentators such as Massimo Giletti added that “Oltre Lavitola, un personaggio noto avrebbe avuto ruolo importante.”

Details emerging about the bombers’ payment indicate they were paid “poco più di 5 mila euro, certamente sotto i 10 mila” euros. The case continues to draw intense media and political scrutiny.