A recent crackdown by Italian police has led to the arrest of 19 people accused of forming mafia groups connected to the football business in Milan. The detainees are mainly hardcore fans, or ultras, of Serie A clubs FC Internazionale and AC Milan. The charges they face include criminal conspiracy, employing mafia methods, extortion, assault, and other serious crimes. Authorities suspect that the Calabrian mafia group ‘Ndrangheta may be involved in this criminal ring, which aimed to take control of various businesses operating in and around the San Siro stadium.
Among the detainees are notable figures such as Alex Cologno and Christian Rosiello, described in the press as friends and bodyguards of the popular rap artist Fedez. Another individual arrested is Luca Lucci, who has ties to far-right Lega leader Matteo Salvini. The police investigation also involved searches of over 50 fans’ homes, including those of Giancarlo Lombardi, a former top ultra for AC Milan known as “The Baron,” and Antonio Bellocco, a former ‘Ndrangheta boss who was recently killed, allegedly by an Inter ultra.
The relationship between Inter and Milan fans has historically been relatively peaceful, with a non-belligerence pact in place since 1981 following the tragic death of a 21-year-old fan. However, authorities now believe that this agreement has evolved into a business deal, with both groups seeking to profit and jointly govern various aspects of football within the city. This includes controlling sales of food, tickets, fan memorabilia, and parking at the Giuseppe Meazza stadium, as well as potential involvement in drug trafficking.
The allegations against these top ultras have shocked the football community in Milan and raised concerns about the entanglement of organized crime within the sport. The arrests have been described as a significant blow to the leadership of fan groups supporting both Inter and Milan. The involvement of the ‘Ndrangheta, a powerful criminal organization known for its influence in various sectors across Italy, highlights the serious nature of these accusations.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the alleged criminal activities of these fan groups and their connections to organized crime. The impact of these arrests on the fan culture surrounding the Milan clubs remains to be seen, as fans and officials grapple with the fallout from this scandal. This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of allowing criminal elements to infiltrate and corrupt beloved institutions such as football, and underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within the sport.
