Two-week operation in Italy: 644 arrested, including 69 minors; weapons, drugs and cash seized

A two-week operation by the Italian State Police, carried out in cooperation with 106 police departments across the country, ended with 644 arrests: 575 adults and 69 minors. The operation aimed to prevent and combat youth crime, whether committed by individuals or organized groups.

Those arrested are suspected of crimes against people and property, as well as drug- and weapons-related offenses, including drug trafficking. Officers from 106 mobile squads checked a total of 236,138 young people, 23,060 of whom were minors.

Police also opened criminal proceedings against 1,695 people without arresting them. They included 373 minors suspected of receiving stolen goods, carrying weapons and dangerous objects, and possessing drugs with intent to distribute.

According to authorities, the most common offenses included attempted murder, assault, group fights, property damage, extortion, theft, robbery, and the distribution of drugs and psychotropic substances. Police said some of these acts were posted on social media by the perpetrators themselves.

The operation led to the seizure of 69.4 kilograms of cocaine, 328.44 grams of heroin, and 174.8 kilograms of cannabis and other cannabinoid products. Smaller quantities of ecstasy, ketamine and amphetamine were also found, along with Lyrica capsules and benzodiazepines.

Searches of homes and other premises uncovered items suspected of having been stolen, including gold necklaces, tablets, mobile phones and clothing. Police also seized €269,863 in cash.

The seized items included 28 firearms, both handguns and long guns, and 210 bladed weapons. Officers also found 25 other dangerous items: six screwdrivers, two baseball bats, two telescopic batons, two airsoft pistols, one semiautomatic pistol with blank cartridges, one toy gun, six pepper sprays, two brass knuckles, one utility knife and two face coverings.

In addition, police seized several explosive devices, batteries of single-shot tubes, canisters of irritant spray, utility knives and tools suspected of being used to open doors and commit thefts. The operation is part of Italian authorities’ efforts to combat youth crime, particularly in areas known for drug dealing and heavy nighttime activity.