Italian Police's Largest Mafia Crackdown Since 1984

Italian police arrested nearly 150 individuals in a significant crackdown on the Sicilian Mafia, specifically the Cosa Nostra, in Palermo. The operation, involving over 1,200 officers, is considered the largest since 1984 and targeted 183 suspects for various crimes, including extortion, drug trafficking, and illegal gambling. Despite being weakened over the years, the Cosa Nostra continues to exert control, often using encrypted smartphones to coordinate activities. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the effort as a testament to the state's commitment to combating organized crime. The raids also aimed to dismantle the Mafia's governing body, known as the Cupola, and to prevent the resurgence of its influence. The investigation revealed the Mafia's adaptation to modern technology, allowing jailed leaders to continue exerting influence.