Another bust this time in the province of Crotone, the poorest region of Italy.

The Italian police have once again hit the Calabrese ‘ndrangheta, the most powerful mafia organization in the world. During a major operation called Basso Profilo (‘Inconspicuous’) at least 48 people were arrested. 35 of them are allowed to remain under house arrest.

At least 200 agents, four dog units and a helicopter were deployed throughout the country in the action. Most of the suspects are mafiosi, but entrepreneurs and politicians are also part of the investigation. They are suspected of illegally moving funds worth roughly EUR 300 million. During searches, cars, bank accounts, furniture, mail and household effects were seized.

The home of national party leader of the center-democratic UDP and former MEP Lorenzo Cesa has also been searched. He says he is innocent, but has resigned as leader of his party. A party member in Calabria who is chief of finance in the region is under house arrest.