yeah, they wouldn't think of slipping away to Brazil or wherever because when they leave their territory, they lose control of their family. And usually they do have some contact with their family..wives, kids, etc. They always find a way. Although, Falsone, who was also boss, was found in France and he's from the same town in Sicily as Messina.

And like many of Italian bosses that have been caught, Messina is locked up 23 hours a day (under article 41-bis regime) and for only one hour a month can have a visitation, but only thru glass, etc etc. If he would ever talk, they will take him out of this regime.
He was actually hiding out in a condo one town over. He had been in his own town for all those years, but then moved and that's when he was caught shortly after.
Usually, when they move, they're caught. Theyre only as safe as their close circle of guys around them protecting them.