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Italy Arrests 13 in Nationwide Raids on Chinese Mafia Networks

Authorities launched coordinated raids after probes uncovered violent turf wars, suspected sweatshop abuses, mafia financing schemes via Hawala

Overview

  • Italian police detained 13 suspects during simultaneous operations in 25 provinces including Milan, Rome, Florence and Prato.
  • The detainees face charges of drug dealing, sex trafficking and aggravated robbery following evidence gathered in the sweep.
  • Officers seized about 550 grams of crystal methamphetamine, equivalent to roughly 5,500 doses, in the anti-mafia operation.
  • Investigators say Chinese crime groups collaborate with Italian mafias and use Hawala transfers to move money and enforce feuds.
  • Independent inquiries revealed systematic labor exploitation at Chinese-owned factories supplying luxury brands such as Valentino, Giorgio Armani and Loro Piana.