Italy’s State Police arrested 12 individuals on Wednesday in a nationwide operation targeting the Werwolf Division, a white supremacist neo-Nazi group. The operation, led by Bologna prosecutors, also included searches of 13 homes across the country under a warrant issued by a Bologna judge.
The suspects are accused of belonging to an “organised cell” capable of executing lone-wolf attacks, similar to those carried out by jihadists and other extremists. The charges include criminal association for terrorism, propaganda and incitement to racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination, and illegal possession of firearms.
Alleged Plots Against High-Profile Targets
Police revealed that the group discussed plans to attack Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and a World Economic Forum economist.
Investigators claim the group had been preparing serious acts of violence, including purges against perceived “traitors” within their movement.
A Broader Investigation
The Digos security police and Bologna’s Public Prosecutor’s Office conducted an extensive investigation which led to the dismantling of this neo-Nazi cell. Authorities also allege the group engaged in propaganda and recruitment efforts to spread its ideology and lay the groundwork for violent actions.
The arrests highlight ongoing concerns over the threat posed by extremist groups in Italy, with police reiterating the importance of vigilance in combating such organisations.
