The Italian Mafia is Changing Tactics: From Internal Conflicts to Strategic Cooperation, Threatening the Security and Stability of the Entire Country
In the new annual report of the Italian Anti-Mafia Directorate (DIA), which has already attracted the attention of international analysts and has been disseminated by reputable news agencies such as Reuters and "European Truth," shocking data have emerged about dramatic changes in the structure and strategy of the Italian Mafia. Instead of long-standing inter-clan conflicts and battles for territory control, major criminal organizations such as Cosa Nostra, Camorra, and 'Ndrangheta are increasingly forming alliances aimed at mutual strengthening and expanding their presence not only along the Italian coast but also abroad. These trends raise concerns not only among law enforcement agencies but also among European policymakers, as the Mafia demonstrates greater technical prowess and organizational readiness, utilizing modern technologies to achieve their criminal objectives. According to the report, the alliances between northern and southern clans, specifically Cosa Nostra from Sicily and Camorra from Naples, are gradually evolving into a stable partnership operating both within Italy and internationally. Additionally, the Calabrian 'Ndrangheta is intensifying its focus on controlling government infrastructure projects, increasingly blurring the lines between criminal enterprises and state institutions. DIA Director Michele Carbone noted that "the coexistence of these criminal groups fosters the formation of stable and mutually beneficial collaborations," which significantly complicates efforts to combat Mafia activity in the country. At the same time, Italian analysts highlight a substantial increase in Mafia infiltration into legitimate sectors of the economy. Criminals are actively targeting projects financed by the European Union as part of COVID-19 recovery programs and economic stimulus measures. Among these are the construction of a bridge between Sicily and the mainland, preparations for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and the implementation of infrastructure initiatives within broader European grant programs. In 2024, over 38% of administrative anti-Mafia measures involved the construction sector — investigations were launched on 200 sites, indicating a systematic approach by criminal groups. Carbone emphasized that Italian law enforcement agencies are preparing to thwart any attempts by the Mafia to penetrate state and commercial structures. Notably, there is a strong stance in the transportation construction sector, focusing on preventing corruption and criminal infiltration as well as combating monopolization of controlled firms. One of the most notable aspects of the Mafia’s transformation is its technological literacy. According to the report, criminals increasingly use encrypted communication channels, cryptocurrencies, and drones to maintain contact with incarcerated members and to operate within digital space. Meanwhile, in efforts to combat money laundering, criminals actively employ international networks, including Chinese "underground banks" and financial institutions, which allow them to easily bypass traditional control mechanisms. Another alarming trend is the recruitment of youth—including very young individuals—into so-called "gang children." Media reports document displays of power and showy performances on social networks, serving as part of psychological influence and recruitment efforts into complex and dangerous criminal structures. Authorities are fighting back, but this phenomenon remains one of the main security challenges facing the country. In recent months, hundreds of individuals suspected of ties to Mafia groups have been detained during high-profile operations and large-scale raids conducted by DIA and other regional law enforcement agencies. For example, in February, a large raid in Sicily resulted in the detention of over 180 people suspected of organizing and operating the Cosa Nostra clan. In April, in cooperation with German colleagues, mass operations targeted the 'Ndrangheta clan from Calabria, leading to the detention of dozens of suspects. Another significant operation was a total raid on May 21, during which law enforcement detained nearly a hundred suspects linked to this clan. Overall, these investigations and operations confirm the high level of challenge faced by Italian law enforcement, which must continually improve its methods and strategies in combating the transnational Mafia network that is becoming increasingly organized and technologically advanced. At the same time, widespread corruption, influence over state structures, and active use of modern technologies in crime schemes pose a serious threat not only to Italy’s stability but also to the entire European continent.