A powerful explosion in the early hours of Friday morning ripped through the quiet streets of Pomezia, a town just south of Rome, leaving two family cars belonging to acclaimed Italian investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci utterly destroyed.
Taking to social media, Mr. Ranucci revealed that the blast was the result of an explosive device meticulously placed beneath the vehicles. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, wasted no time in condemning the act, labeling it a clear attempt to intimidate the journalist.
A compelling video shared by Ranucci on social media captured the grim aftermath: twisted metal and charred remains of two cars parked outside a stark black metal gate. Flashing lights from an emergency vehicle pierced the dawn, and a uniformed emergency worker moved amidst the debris, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Ranucci is a household name in Italy, celebrated as the host of “Report,” a fearless investigative program broadcast on Rai 3, the national public channel. His vulnerability to such attacks is not new; in 2021, Italian authorities placed him under police protection following the discovery of a chilling assassination plot orchestrated by the ‘Ndrangheta, a powerful Italian organized crime group. This year alone, approximately 20 Italian journalists, known for their courageous investigations into corruption and organized crime, have been afforded police protection, highlighting the perilous environment for press freedom, as reported by a prominent group monitoring threats against journalists.
‘Report’ has gained renown for its deep dives into sensitive topics like corruption, government mismanagement, and the intricate links between politics and the mafia. Notably, last year, Prime Minister Meloni’s own party, Fratelli d’Italia, pursued legal action against Mr. Ranucci and his program, alleging defamation after a segment aired that suggested connections between the party and organized crime.
Just days before the explosion, Mr. Ranucci had publicly announced the upcoming season of ‘Report,’ slated to premiere on October 26. The new season promised to delve into a range of critical subjects, including the banking sector, wind energy, and the country’s healthcare system.
While there was no immediate confirmation of injuries from the blast, Mr. Ranucci confirmed in an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica that both he and his daughter were at home when the terrifying explosion occurred, adding a personal dimension to the alarming attack.