In Italy, suspected mafia groups are using cats with burning rags…
In Italy, suspected mafia groups are using cats with burning rags attached to spread forest fires, aiming to devalue land for cheap acquisition and development. Authorities have linked this method to previous arson schemes in Sicily and near Vesuvius.
Consensus
- Criminals in Italy are using cats with flammable materials attached to spread forest fires.
- The cats are released into dry vegetation, where they run and spread flames.
- Authorities suspect mafia clans are behind the arson attacks.
- The goal is to reduce land value so it can be bought cheaply for construction or solar panel installations.
- Zoosafety organizations have offered a 1,000 euro reward for information about perpetrators.
- Multiple forest fires have occurred in recent days, including one that destroyed around 1,000 hectares in the Pollino National Park.
Points of divergence
- The method involves tying burning rags soaked in flammable liquid to cats and releasing them into forest areas. — riamo
- Authorities have specifically identified Calabria as the region where this activity is taking place. — vm
- The practice has been previously used in Sicily and near Vesuvius. — riamo
- More than 160 fires have been recorded in the region over recent days. — vm
- Spanish authorities declared a state of emergency in Madrid and Avila due to worsening forest fire conditions. — vm
Coverage (3 sources)
- Arson for cheap land: in Italy, mafiosi turn cats into living torches — РИАМО
- Italian mafia suspected of using cats to spread forest fires — Вечерняя Москва
- Italian mafia suspected of setting forest fires using cats — РИАМО