"Landmark 'Maxi Trial' Convicts Over 200 Italian Mobsters in Historic Mafia Case"
More than 200 individuals have been convicted and sentenced in Italy's largest mafia trial in three decades. The trial targeted members of the notorious 'Ndrangheta crime syndicate, with charges including criminal association, extortion, and bribery. While over 100 individuals were acquitted, the verdicts represent a significant blow to the powerful organized crime group, which dominates the European cocaine trade. The trial, which lasted three years, involved 900 witnesses and collected extensive evidence of the 'Ndrangheta's oppressive tactics, including violence, corruption, and manipulation of elections. The sentencing also included non-mafia individuals, such as police officials, mayors, and business people, signaling a departure from previous cases. Most of those sentenced plan to appeal.