Capua – For a jeweler in the Caserta region, a nightmare that had lasted for years came to an end shortly before the turn of the year. In a coordinated operation on December 19, the Carabinieri of the Operativa section of the Compagnia di Capua arrested six people in Pignataro Maggiore, Naples, and Luisago. The suspects are accused of belonging to the notorious Camorra clan „Ligato-Lubrano” and of enriching themselves through massive extortion over a period of 15 years.
Years of exploitation and new greed
Investigations by the Anti-Mafia Prosecutor's Office (DDA) in Naples revealed an alarming level of criminal activity. The criminal network is alleged to have systematically pressured its victims since 2008. Over this long period of time, the clan repeatedly demanded valuable jewelry using violent, mafia-like methods. According to estimates, the value of the loot obtained in this way will amount to around €70,000 by 2023.
But that did not satisfy the criminals' hunger. Over the course of 2025, the alleged blackmailers intensified their demands, specifically requesting additional jewelry and a Rolex watch worth around €30,000.
Planned violence and police intervention
When the jeweler finally mustered the courage to refuse to give in to the demands, the clan planned violent retaliation, according to the results of the investigation. The perpetrators intended to use brute force to extort an additional €50,000 and more jewelry before the Christmas holidays. However, the authorities intervened before this escalation could take place.
During the subsequent house searches, the officers seized €6,600 in cash as well as a dangerous arsenal. In the apartment of one suspect, they seized 17 kilograms of gunpowder, a combat knife, and brass knuckles. All six suspects are now in custody in the prisons of Santa Maria Capua Vetere and Como after the judges confirmed the arrests. The presumption of innocence applies until a final conviction.
