In a large-scale police operation, the Santapaola-Ercolano clan was targeted in Catania and several other Italian regions. A total of 38 arrest warrants were issued for suspected members and supporters of the organization. The investigations, which are being conducted under the code name "Naumachia", are aimed at a variety of serious crimes, including membership of a mafia organization, drug trafficking, possession of weapons, extortion and receiving stolen goods.
Since the early hours of the morning, over 200 Carabinieri have been deployed, supported by special units such as the "Cacciatori di Sicilia" and with air support. The operation is not only focused on the province of Catania, but also extends to other areas such as Siracusa, Enna, Asti, Agrigento, Caltanissetta, Naples, Pavia and Palermo. The authorities want to weaken the clan's criminal structures in the long term and hit its economic foundations, particularly in the areas of drug and arms trafficking and protection rackets.
The investigations coordinated by the Catania public prosecutor's office led to extensive measures that not only concern the local dimension of the organization, but also highlight its networking across several regions of Italy. The structures of the Santapaola-Ercolano clan are considered to be firmly embedded in the structure of Cosa Nostra and have extensive logistical and financial resources at their disposal. This made it necessary to deploy such a large police force.
A press conference is to be held in Catania later today, at which the investigating authorities intend to provide further details on the background to the operation and the people arrested. The operation is seen as a significant blow against organized crime in Sicily and beyond.
