Late Thursday night, a powerful explosion ripped through the quiet street outside the Pomezia home of Sigfrido Ranucci, a prominent Italian investigative journalist, obliterating two family cars.
Writing on social media, Mr. Ranucci confirmed that the 10 p.m. blast was caused by an explosive device intentionally placed beneath the vehicles. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni swiftly denounced the act, stating it was a clear attempt to intimidate the journalist.
A video shared by Mr. Ranucci on social media captured the grim aftermath: twisted wreckage of two cars on the street outside a black metal gate, illuminated by the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle and the presence of a uniformed emergency worker.
Mr. Ranucci, known for his work as the host of “Report,” an investigative series on Italy’s public broadcaster Rai 3, has lived under police protection since 2021. This security measure was put in place after an assassination plot by the ‘Ndrangheta, a notorious Italian organized crime syndicate, came to light. This year alone, approximately 20 Italian journalists, all engaged in reporting on corruption and organized crime, have been afforded similar police protection, as documented by Reporters Without Borders.
“Report” has gained recognition for its deep dives into corruption, government mismanagement, and the intricate connections between politics and the mafia. Notably, last year, Prime Minister Meloni’s own party, Fratelli d’Italia, initiated a defamation lawsuit against Mr. Ranucci and “Report” following a segment that suggested links between the party and organized crime.
Just days before the attack, Mr. Ranucci had announced the return of “Report” for a new season on October 26, promising investigations into critical sectors such as banking, wind energy, and healthcare.
Fortunately, the explosion caused no injuries, as confirmed by Alessia Marzi, a fellow journalist at “Report.” Mr. Ranucci and his daughter returned home safely within an hour of the incident.