12 Individuals Arrested in Major Waste Trafficking Operation
Naples, Italy, January 29 – In a significant operation targeting environmental crime, 12 individuals have been subjected to precautionary measures across the provinces of Salerno, Naples, and Caserta. The arrests, comprising 8 house arrests and 4 residency obligations, were carried out by the Carabinieri of the Naples Environmental and Energy Security Group (NOE) and territorial provincial commands. The charges include organized activity for illicit waste trafficking and the issuance of invoices for non-existent operations.
Investigation Uncovers Extensive Illegal Network
The investigation, which commenced in October 2023, utilized a range of technical surveillance methods, including wiretaps, environmental monitoring, video recordings, stakeouts, and document acquisition. According to investigators, the suspects repeatedly disposed of hazardous and non-hazardous special waste – predominantly scraps from special/industrial waste treatment, textile waste, and undifferentiated municipal solid waste (MSW). This waste originated from plants in the provinces of Naples and Caserta and was handled through intermediary companies in the sector. The motivation for these illicit activities was to avoid the costs associated with legally prescribed waste management procedures.
700 Tons of Waste Illegally Moved
The inquiry was initially triggered by a shipment to Hungary, falsely classified as plastic and rubber, which was rejected, raising suspicions among investigators. Between October 2023 and July 2024, an estimated 700 tons of waste were illegally moved. The illicit waste trafficking reportedly followed three distinct methods:
- Collection of industrial waste at ecological islands and subsequent delivery to the public STIR plant in Battipaglia.
- Direct abandonment of waste, including in environmentally sensitive areas outside Campania.
- Burial of waste within the premises of a pig farm in Roccadaspide.
This precise modus operandi was facilitated by the fictitious classification of waste by production plants, using false documentation that indicated transport and delivery operations that never occurred, and issuing false invoices to justify the transport and subsequent illegal abandonment of industrial waste at unauthorized sites.
Seizures and Financial Implications
As part of the operation, two plants involved in the illicit disposal flow were seized, along with eight vehicles used for waste transport. Furthermore, approximately 530,000 euros, believed to be the proceeds from the illicit trafficking and the use of invoices for non-existent operations, were also seized. Those implicated in the scheme include drivers, transport organizers, intermediaries, and both formal and de facto managers of the responsible companies.
Prosecutor Rocco Alfano emphasized that the decision for precautionary custody stemmed from the necessity to prevent the commission of further crimes of the same nature. The ongoing efforts underscore the commitment of authorities to combat environmental crime and protect the region’s natural heritage from illegal dumping and pollution.
This operation highlights the persistent challenge of illegal waste management and the complex networks involved in such illicit activities within Italy. Authorities continue to monitor and investigate to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to safeguard public health and the environment.
