Italian Police Arrest Notorious Mafia Leader

In a significant law enforcement operation, Italian authorities have apprehended 26 individuals believed to be affiliated with organized crime, including a prominent mafia leader. The suspect, 80-year-old Pino Piromalli, known by the nickname 'The Scarred One,' had previously spent over two decades in prison before being released.

The recent police raid targeted multiple locations across Italy and involved a specialized unit from the Carabinieri. According to the prosecution, the arrested individuals face serious charges, including membership in a criminal organization, possession of illegal firearms, extortion, and money laundering. Investigations are also ongoing regarding the possible manipulation of government contracts.

Piromalli, a notorious figure associated with the 'Ndrangheta', one of Italy's largest and most powerful mafia groups, is suspected of regaining a significant role within the organization since his release. The 'Ndrangheta,' based in Calabria, has emerged as a dominant force among Italian mafia organizations, surpassing the Camorra from Naples and the Sicilian Cosa Nostra in terms of influence and operations.

This criminal syndicate is heavily involved in global drug trafficking and generates substantial revenue through arms trade, money laundering, and corruption, amounting to billions of euros.

Piromalli gained notoriety as the head of a 'Ndrangheta clan based in the port city of Gioia Tauro. After years of living underground, he was arrested in 1999 and subsequently served 22 years in prison. In the current investigations, he is once again considered a key suspect by authorities.