Major Anti-Mafia Operation in Sicily Leads to 183 Arrests

ITItaly|

In a significant crackdown on organized crime, Italian authorities have arrested 183 alleged members of the Cosa Nostra mafia during a large-scale operation in Sicily, particularly around Palermo. According to the police, the operation involved more than 1,200 officers and targeted various mafia bosses connected to notorious criminal activities. Those detained face serious charges, including murder, assault, extortion, and drug and arms trafficking.

The police were able to execute this operation after intercepting communications among mafia members, revealing coordination between imprisoned leaders and those still on the streets using encrypted messages. Reports indicate that some suspects had prior knowledge of the impending arrests and were planning to flee abroad.

Despite a decline in its power relative to the 'Ndrangheta, which has become the wealthiest mafia organization in Italy, the Cosa Nostra remains influential in local governments and businesses in Sicily. This operation is part of a continued effort by the Italian government to combat organized crime, which has deep roots in the region.

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