Eight people are being investigated for fraud in the recognition of Italian citizenship in the municipalities of Borrello and Montebello sul Sangro, in the Abruzzo region. The Lanciano Prosecutor's Office's investigation reveals a scheme that included cash payments, sexual favors, and the exchange of electoral support.
The operation, led by prosecutors Mirvana Di Serio and Miriana Greco, with support from the Carabinieri of Atessa, identified two separate criminal organizations that provided fictitious residences to Brazilians and Argentines. The objective was to allow the irregular recognition of Italian citizenship.
First group worked with Argentines
The first organization, active since July 2022, focused on Argentine citizens, according to a publication on the Fanpage.it portal.
The group had the support of public figures: the mayor of Borrello, Armando Di Luca (50), the mayor of Montebello sul Sangro, Nicola Di Fabrizio (47), and the civil registry official of both cities, Luciano Nicola Giampaolo (70).
According to investigators, each illegal process yielded up to 5.000 euros. The addresses used in the records were empty properties, the members' own homes, and a bed & breakfast administered by the Argentine duo.
Second group targeted Brazilians
Starting in July 2023, a new consultancy firm emerged, focusing on Brazilians and operating exclusively in Montebello sul Sangro. Its leader was Mauro Paolini, 66, a former employee of the local registry office, who used his technical expertise to facilitate the fraudulent procedures.
The names of Mayor Di Fabrizio and civil servant Giampaolo appear again, indicated as part of the two networks.
Bribes included sexual favors and votes
The charges go beyond criminal association. According to the Prosecutor's Office, the public officials involved received various bribes. Luciano Giampaolo allegedly benefited from cash, sexual favors, gifts, discounts at stores, and even rent payments for his ex-wife's apartment.
The most serious case involves Mayor Armando Di Luca, accused of accepting votes from Argentine voters in exchange for citizenship. He was re-elected in the municipal elections of June 8 and 9, 2024. Similar accusations weigh on Mayor Di Fabrizio.
Citizenships based on false documents
The scheme was based on the systematic production of false documents. The mayors and the official, Giampaolo, are accused of fraudulent misrepresentation for issuing hundreds of fraudulent certificates. Among them, declarations of hospitality and non-existent kinship.
The fraud exploited the rule of jus sanguinis (right of blood), a principle of Italian law that recognizes citizenship to children of Italian citizens. When genealogical ties do not exist, criminal organizations enter the scene.
The eight defendants now have 20 days to present their defenses or request new statements. They are represented by local lawyers and await the outcome of the case being conducted by the Italian courts.
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