Camorra

Camorristi-1906

Cuocolo Trial in Viterbo 1911-12

Camorra is an Italian Mafia-type crime syndicate, or secret society, which arose in the region of Campania and its capital Naples. It is one of the oldest and largest criminal organizations in Italy, dating back to the 17th century. Unlike the more structured Sicilian Mafia, the Camorra's organizational structure is more horizontal, making it more difficult to combat. The group is involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, murder, extortion, loan sharking, money laundering, and illegal gambling.

History

The origins of the Camorra are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have started as a prison gang in the 17th century. Over the centuries, it evolved into a powerful criminal organization. During the 19th century, the Camorra expanded its activities and gained significant power by infiltrating various sectors of society, including politics and the economy. In the late 20th century, the Italian state began a more aggressive campaign against the Mafia and the Camorra, leading to significant arrests and trials.

Structure

The Camorra is organized into individual groups called "clans" or "families." Each clan operates in specific territories and has its own hierarchy and operations. The lack of a single, centralized leadership makes the Camorra more resilient to law enforcement efforts, as the arrest of key members does not necessarily disrupt the organization's overall activities.

Activities

The Camorra's criminal activities are diverse, with a significant portion of its income coming from drug trafficking, especially cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. The organization is also involved in counterfeiting, especially counterfeit fashion goods, and operates a number of legitimate businesses, both in Italy and abroad, as fronts for money laundering.

Impact

The Camorra has a profound impact on society, not only in Italy but also internationally. Its involvement in drug trafficking and other criminal activities has contributed to social decay and insecurity. The organization's infiltration into legitimate businesses and the public sector has also led to corruption and economic distortion.

Efforts to Combat the Camorra

The Italian government has taken various measures to combat the Camorra, including the implementation of stringent laws, such as the use of special anti-Mafia police units and the introduction of the "turncoat" law, which encourages members of the Mafia to cooperate with law enforcement in exchange for reduced sentences. Despite these efforts, the Camorra remains a significant challenge due to its deep roots in society and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances.