21-year-old arrested in Salerno after bomb-making materials and modified weapons found at home

A 21-year-old Italian student has been detained in Salerno on suspicion of possessing materials and documents for the construction or use of explosive devices for terrorist purposes, as well as illegal weapons.

The arrest was carried out on the evening of October 2 by Salerno’s DIGOS and the Central Directorate of Police for Prevention, following a search authorized by the Prosecutor’s Office.

The young man was already known to police over matters related to fraud and the illegal possession of weapons.

The investigation began after information was forwarded by AISE, Italy’s foreign intelligence service. During their inquiries, authorities found that the 21-year-old had searched online for training manuals, information about weapons and methods for preparing explosives, as well as materials attributed to the terrorist organization Islamic State.

According to investigators, the inquiry also uncovered evidence suggesting that the young man had expressed intentions to carry out violent acts.

Searches of the man, his home and his electronic devices led to the discovery of a considerable amount of documents and manuals. According to the authorities, they contained instructions for producing and using improvised explosive devices and homemade explosive mixtures.

Investigators said the contents of the seized materials also demonstrated a pronounced affinity with the ideology of Islamic radicalism.

During the operation, police also seized two knives and a machete measuring approximately 50 centimeters in length.

Two pistols were also found in the home, a Colt and a revolver. Preliminary checks showed that they were blank-firing weapons, but had been modified to contain a functional active mechanism.

The authorities also took 107 blank cartridges as evidence.

The seized materials will undergo further technical examinations. Additional checks will also be carried out on the weapons and electronic devices.

After the relevant procedures were completed, the 21-year-old was arrested in flagrante delicto and taken to Fuorni prison, where he will remain pending further judicial proceedings.

The investigation is continuing to determine whether he had any other contacts, activities or plans related to the searches conducted online and the materials found.