The Finance Police The Catania branch of the European Public Prosecutor's Office, acting on behalf of the European Public Prosecutor's Office in Palermo, executed a precautionary measure against 30 suspects for conspiracy to evade VAT and commit fraudulent bankruptcy. The operation, dubbed "Ultimo brindisi," resulted in the arrest of 10 people, six of whom were jailed and four under house arrest.
The criminal group
At the head of the organization was Filippo Intelisano, a 41-year-old with no criminal record, son of boss Giuseppe Intelisano, known as "Pippu 'u niuru," a leading member of the Santapaola clan. The criminal group, relying on the collaboration of entrepreneurs and professionals, generated a turnover of over €100 million in the beverage distribution sector, defrauding the tax authorities of over €30 million.
The methods of fraud
The organization used several "shell" companies to issue invoices for non-existent transactions, thereby lowering the selling price of beverages and gaining an unfair competitive advantage. They also simulated intra-EU transactions and created non-existent tax credits.
The seized assets
The investigating judge of Catania has ordered the preventive seizure of sums of money, company shares, real estate and vehicles for a total value of over 30 million euros.
Other precautionary measures
In addition to the arrests, 17 suspects have been placed under preventive measures, banning them from carrying out business activities or holding corporate positions for one year.
The investigation
The investigation lasted approximately two years and was conducted by the Catania Financial Police through wiretaps, environmental surveillance, and financial and asset checks.
A hard blow to organized crime
Operation "Ultimo brindisi" represents a severe blow to organized crime and demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to combating tax evasion and fraudulent bankruptcy.
The names of those arrested
In addition to Filippo Intelisano, the following were arrested:
Milena Bulla
Fabio Spina
Vincenzo Carelli
Andrea Maria Carelli
Concordio Malandrino
The following have ended up under house arrest:
Virgil Papotto
Christian Parisi
Gianluca Russo
Seventh Charles Abbot
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