Extortion of farmers between Naples and Caserta: Two Casalesi associates arrested

In the early hours of the morning, the Carabinieri of the Caserta Investigative Unit executed a precautionary detention order against two people, considered serious suspects of the crimes of extortion and aggravated damage using mafia methods.

The order was issued by the preliminary investigations judge of the Court of Naples at the request of the Naples District Anti-Mafia Directorate, following a detailed investigative effort.

The investigation, launched last January following complaints filed by several agricultural entrepreneurs in the provinces of Naples and Caserta, has uncovered a pattern of systematic pressure being exerted on companies operating in the agricultural sector.

The investigations, conducted through technical activities, the acquisition of testimonies, and the verification of the statements of collaborators of justice, revealed serious extortion practices that had been repeated over time.

According to investigators' reconstruction, the two suspects, leveraging the intimidating power deriving from their alleged membership in the Casalesi clan, allegedly carried out and attempted extortion schemes against ten agricultural entrepreneurs.

The requests for money, varying between 300 and 1.400 euros per year, were justified as payment for an alleged “guardianship” service, presented as a protective measure against possible damage to crops, structures, equipment and agricultural vehicles.

The climate of intimidation was further reinforced by repeated visits to the victims' homes. On several occasions, the suspects allegedly visited the business owners' homes even in their absence, introducing themselves to their families with the clear intent of demonstrating knowledge of their homes and lifestyle, thus increasing the psychological pressure.

In at least six cases, the refusal or delay in paying the requested sums resulted in damage to fruit and vegetable greenhouses. The economic damages, according to estimates, range from €5.000 to €40.000 for each affected farm, severely impacting the already fragile sustainability of the affected agricultural activities.

The arrests are part of a broader effort to combat mafia infiltration in the primary sector, which has long been considered vulnerable to pressure from organized crime.