Italian authorities have announced the results of a major anti-drug operation across several regions, leading to a significant number of arrests and seizures. The crackdown targeted organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking, underscoring the ongoing battle against the Italian mafia’s influence.
Police confirmed the arrest of 384 individuals, with an additional 655 placed under investigation. Worryingly, 39 of those under investigation are minors, highlighting the growing concern about youth involvement in drug-related activities.
The operation, which concluded Friday, resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal substances, including 1.4 tons of narcotics and 35 kilograms of cocaine. Authorities also confiscated over 40 firearms, further demonstrating the scale and potential violence associated with these criminal enterprises.
As part of the operation, five cannabis shops in three cities were temporarily closed following 312 inspections. During these inspections, police seized 296 kilograms of cannabis products that preliminary tests indicated were illicit drugs.
Italy has recently taken steps to regulate the cannabis market, with a security decree approved in June prohibiting so-called “legal” cannabis and restricting the trade of “light cannabis” which, unlike marijuana, does not have psychoactive effects. These measures reflect the government’s efforts to combat drug use and trafficking.
Past government reports show alarming rates of drug use among young people. A report submitted to parliament revealed that nearly 960,000 Italians aged 15 to 19 have used illicit substances at least once, with drug use returning to pre-pandemic levels. This figure represents approximately 40% of minors in the country.
Italy remains a key hub for powerful mafia organizations that generate billions of euros from drug smuggling. In 2023, it was estimated that 54,000 minors had used cocaine, while around 550,000 had used cannabis-related products at least once.
In 2023, authorities seized approximately 89 tons of illegal substances, a 17% increase compared to the previous year. Around 27,700 individuals were implicated in drug-related crimes. The government estimates that the illegal drug trade in Italy generated around 16.4 billion euros (17.59 billion dollars) in 2022, primarily from cocaine and cannabis derivatives.
