Italian authorities have detained 19 prominent soccer fans associated with Inter Milan and AC Milan, with many allegedly connected to the ‘Ndrangheta mafia, as reported by prosecutors on Monday.
The investigation unveiled how certain fan groups have evolved into criminal organizations, engaging in ticket fraud and extorting payment from vendors operating near the San Siro stadium, home to both Serie A clubs. National Anti-Mafia and Anti-Terrorism Chief Prosecutor Giovanni Melillo highlighted the significance of the inquiry, emphasizing the need to confront the reality of mafia influence in sports venues.
Officials indicated that the arrested individuals, including leaders of the respective ultra groups, exerted pressure on club officials and players to acquire large quantities of tickets intended for unauthorized resale. Milan’s chief prosecutor, Marcello Viola, stated that both Inter and AC Milan are victims in this scenario. AC Milan expressed its intention to cooperate fully with the investigation, while Inter Milan did not respond immediately.
This development follows the recent arrest of Andrea Beretta, a prominent leader of the Inter ultras, for the murder of Antonio Bellocco, a key member of the Calabrian ‘Ndrangheta mob. Authorities noted that Inter fans had previously engaged in dealings with this mafia organization, claiming Beretta committed the murder over a financial dispute—a charge he denies, asserting self-defense.
Despite being fierce rivals on the field, the ultra groups from both clubs had previously entered into a non-aggression agreement, allowing them to enhance their illicit operations. Authorities urged a cultural shift among soccer fans, warning that without change, those arrested would merely be replaced by others willing to commit similar offenses.
Prosecutors also advised both clubs to reassess their associations with fan groups, suggesting structural changes to prevent further criminal infiltration. Antonio Quintavalle, a finance police general, remarked on the intersection of criminal organizations with business activities, noting the lack of complaints from those exploited by these crimes.