Two Armed Turkish Men Arrested Ahead of Large Italian Festival

Italian authorities arrested two armed Turkish men in Viterbo just hours before the Macchina di Santa Rosa festival, a major religious event attended by thousands, including Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the swift police action, which helped ensure the festival's safe celebration. Reports indicate the men were allegedly preparing an attack during the festival, with one source noting the suspects possessed machine guns and had a detailed plan. The arrests come amid recent cooperation between Turkish and European law enforcement targeting Turkish criminal organizations, including a major raid in April 2024 that resulted in over 230 arrests and significant narcotics seizures. Additionally, Italian and Interpol forces arrested a reputed Turkish mafia boss in the Viterbo area in May 2024. While Italian police have not officially confirmed the motive behind the arrests, suspicions remain high given the festival's religious significance and the presence of high-profile officials.