Photo: Over 20 members of Nigerian mafia gang, Black Axe arrested in latest police raids across Italy
The suspects are accused of being involved in a
catalogue of criminal activities, from prostitution and protection
rackets through to drug dealing and human trafficking.
The nationwide operation was co-ordinated by the anti-mafia squad in Palermo, Sicily. The
arrests come after a member of the Black Axe turned informer and
revealed the workings of the secretive criminal network, including the
identifies of senior members.
Among
those detained in the latest raids was the head of the group's Italian
operation in Padua. The rise of the Black Axe has been linked to the
wave of migrants making the crossing from North Africa. It has been
reported the criminal syndicate has forged links with the Italian mafia,
the Cosa Nostra. According to the authorities, the Italian gangsters
import drugs, which are then distributed by the Nigerians.
However,
as part of the subordinate relationship, it is understood the Nigerian
gang are banned by their Italian counterparts from carrying guns and so
settle their differences using axes and machetes.
