1991day.year
The Italian prosecuting magistrate Antonino Scopelliti is murdered by the 'Ndrangheta on behalf of the Sicilian Mafia while preparing the government's case in the final appeal of the Maxi Trial.
On August 9, 1991, Italian magistrate Antonino Scopelliti was assassinated by the 'Ndrangheta on behalf of the Sicilian Mafia.
He was killed while preparing the government's case for the Maxi Trial appeal.
Scopelliti had been appointed as the state prosecutor in the final appeal of hundreds of mafia defendants at the Supreme Court.
While traveling to work, he was shot by hitmen linked to the 'Ndrangheta, acting under orders from Sicilian Mafia leaders.
His assassination underscored the mafia's determination to impede judicial efforts against organized crime.
The killing provoked public outrage and led to a nationwide crackdown on mafia networks.
Italian authorities launched extensive investigations that resulted in several high-profile convictions.
Legislators responded by strengthening anti-mafia laws and expanding witness protection programs.
Scopelliti is remembered as a symbol of judicial courage in the fight against Italy's criminal underworld.
1991
Antonino Scopelliti
'Ndrangheta
Sicilian Mafia
Maxi Trial