Ultras are hardcore fans that are adjacent to gangs, known as ‘firms’ in the UK.
The arrests were based on several charges including criminal association, aggravated by the Mafia-style method, extortion and causing bodily harm.
The suspects are leaders of the ultras of the two football clubs in Milan and are allegedly implicated in businesses connected to the world of football, according to investigative sources.
The suspects involved in the police operation include, among others, one of the leaders of Inter’s ultra fans, Marco Ferdico.
Ferdico was very close to Antonio Bellocco, a member of the ‘Ndrangheta crime syndicate who was allegedly killed on September 4 by Andrea Beretta.
Beretta is also a leader of Inter’s fans and is currently detained on murder charges.
Also involved are Luca Lucci, an ultra leader of AC Milan previously convicted on drug charges who is known to the public for a photo taken in 2018 with Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini.
The photo was taken at a party for the 50th anniversary of the Curva Sud football fan club.
Christian Rosiello, known as the bodyguard of rapper Fedez, was also arrested. Rosiello was allegedly involved in an attack against VIP personal trainer Cristiano Iovino earlier this year.
Overall, 19 arrest and house arrest warrants were issued as part of the investigation carried out by police and finance police coordinated by the anti-Mafia DDA investigative unit of Milan’s State Attorney’s office.
Renato Bosetti, who became the new leader of Inter fans after Beretta’s arrest for the murder of Bellocco, is among the 19.
ANSA
