How Does the Mafia Operate in Italy?
"Omerta!!" If I tell you, then I will have to kill you!
The Ndrangheta: Italy's Most Powerful Mafia
Among the various mafia groups in Italy, the Ndrangheta is the most powerful and one of the deadliest organized crime groups in the world. At the apex of this hierarchical structure lies the Capo Crimine, the crime boss, flanked by the Mastro di Giornata, the master of the day. Directly below these positions are several key roles, including Colonels such as the Mastro General and the Capo Societa, and the Contabile, who acts as the accountant.
While loosely structured, the Ndrangheta is one of the most dominant organized crime groups, characterized by a horizontal structure based almost exclusively on blood ties, forming autonomous clans known as ndrine.
Financial Stability and Influence
The Mafia boss is not only influential but also financially well-off. The administration operates in an orderly fashion, with La Cosa Nostra having been established for a very long time. Much like functioning as an “old boy club,” the decision-making process within the mafia is far more intricate and sophisticated than portrayed in movies. The Mafia operates much more like the behind-the-scenes mechanics of businesses, with the real power often lying in strategic leadership rather than violent execution.
“How else do you think it operates? What you see in movies is a bad representation of the very bottom levels - not the network itself.” The decision maker is often deeply involved in the organization, acting as a figure of moral authority and strategic intelligence within the clan. In rare cases, there might be an individual pulling the trigger, but historically, the mafia has relied on under-the-radar operations to maintain its control and influence.
The Mafia's Dominance and Control
The Mafia's control extends far beyond traditional criminal activities such as extortion and drug trafficking. They exert control over political systems, from the Vatican to the European Union (EU). The EU has been receiving donations from followers of the Roman church, which adds another layer of influence for the mafia. This financial stability enhances their operational capabilities and allows them to fund their extensive networks.
Similar to Al Capone's control in Chicago during Prohibition, the Mafia in Sicily, Naples, and Calabria have controlled various sectors of society. They exert control over the court systems, juror selections, and even the city's law enforcement. They have been involved in the production and transportation of illicit goods, much like our city drug runners and cartels in other parts of the world.
The Mafiosi act as a government unto themselves, often dictating terms to the actual government. They are the entity that can manipulate electronic and print media, law enforcement, and have the power to influence other industries. They know whom and where to connect with in business, technology, and commerce, and can effectively manipulate any laws in the Italian and Sicilian government parliaments.
The Omerta and Hierarchy
The Omerta is an ancient code of silence among the members of the mafia, ensuring that no member will betray their fellow criminals. This code is vital to the organization's survival and strength. The hierarchy, as mentioned earlier, includes various levels, from the Capo Crimine all the way down to the ndrine members. Each position has specific responsibilities and plays a crucial role in the operation of the mafia.
Note that the information provided here is for educational purposes and should not be taken as an encouragement to engage in any illegal activities or support criminal organizations.
Keywords: Mafia, Ndrangheta, Organized Crime