A thriving 'drug-dealing square' run by a group of traffickers linked to the Arena mafia gang is at the center of an anti-drug operation by the Catania Police. There are around 200 officers involved in the execution of a precautionary custody order in prison against around 30 suspects.
The surveillance of the 'drug plaza' was ensured by a system of lookouts who communicated with each other only via radio. The investigations also made use of video interceptions, including those recorded with a hidden camera placed in front of the entrance to a building which was the operational base for the supply and sale of cocaine, crack, marijuana and skunk.
The restrictive measure, issued by the investigating judge at the request of the DDA of the Etna Prosecutor's Office, hypothesizes in various capacities and with different profiles of responsibility the crimes of mafia association, association aimed at trafficking in narcotic substances, carrying and possession of firearms and drug dealing.
Details on the operation, called 'Third Chapter', will be announced during a press conference scheduled for 11am in the meeting room of the Catania Police Headquarters.
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