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Carabinieri Seize Devices in Probe of Threats and Stock Manipulation Targeting Lazio Owner

Investigators are testing the material for signs of a coordinated effort to drive down the club’s share price.

Overview

  • Rome prosecutors opened the case after complaints by Claudio Lotito, with five people now under investigation for attempted extortion and market manipulation.
  • Carabinieri from the investigative unit executed searches on December 5 at homes and offices, seizing phones, computers and tablets for forensic analysis.
  • The perquisition decree alleges repeated threats via social media, emails and anonymous calls aimed at forcing Lotito to sell the club or carry out a capital increase.
  • Prosecutors say false reports spread on social networks and an online outlet—claiming an imminent sale, near-bankruptcy and even deliberate relegation for a €35 million parachute—were intended to affect Lazio’s listed shares.
  • Cited intimidation includes banners urging Lotito to leave, a July 17 death threat by phone, and offensive stickers, as prosecutors examine whether a central “regia” coordinated the campaign.