In a significant crackdown on organized crime's infiltration into sports, Italian police have arrested four individuals linked to a campaign of extortion and intimidation aimed at forcing the sale of Calcio Foggia 1920 at below market value. The arrests were made under a precautionary order issued by the Bari Tribunal's preliminary investigation judge, following a request from the Bari District Anti-Mafia Directorate. This operation underscores the persistent challenge of criminal elements attempting to exert control over local sports clubs.
The investigation revealed that the group, described as ultras with direct ties to local organized crime, sought to coerce the club's president into resigning and transferring control of the team. Their demands reportedly stemmed from the president's refusal to grant them control over sponsorship management, stadium entry accreditation, and professional appointments within the club. This refusal was met with a series of violent acts, including an incident on June 18, 2023, involving gunfire directed at the president's vehicle.
In addition to the arrests, authorities have issued 52 Daspo (anti-hooliganism) orders against individuals with criminal records related to organized crime and drug offenses. These measures aim to prevent further violence and intimidation by barring the individuals from attending sports events. The issuance of these orders highlights the broader strategy of Italian law enforcement to combat the influence of organized crime in sports through both legal and preventive means.
The case of Calcio Foggia 1920 serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities sports clubs face to criminal infiltration, particularly in regions where organized crime has deep roots. The swift action by the Bari District Anti-Mafia Directorate and the local police not only disrupts the immediate threat to the club but also sends a clear message against the criminal exploitation of sports entities. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on safeguarding the integrity of sports institutions from external pressures and ensuring a safe environment for fans and stakeholders alike.
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