Drug smuggled into Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto prison; prison guard and nurse arrested in Messina.

Last Updated: June 26, 2024

The article talks about a major anti-drug operation coordinated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Messina, Italy. The operation resulted in the arrest of several individuals, including a prison police officer and a nurse, who were involved in smuggling drugs into a prison in Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto. The investigation revealed that drugs were being brought into the prison from Spain and distributed by local organized crime groups. Additionally, the operation led to the seizure of assets worth 4 million euros, believed to be the profits from illegal activities. The investigation also uncovered a criminal organization involved in trafficking synthetic drugs, cocaine, and marijuana, with bases in Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto and Milazzo. The organization imported drugs from the Dutch market and operated with a monthly turnover of approximately 50,000 euros. The criminal group also exerted pressure on drug dealers to repay debts owed to the organization. The organization was reported to have access to weapons and operated without interference from rival criminal groups in the area.