New political storm in Sicily. Carabinieri in Catania executed a precautionary measure order against 11 people including politicians, municipal officials and businessmen. The charges, in various capacities, are of political-mafia electoral exchange, extortion aggravated by the mafia method, aggravated bribery, incitement to bribery, and disturbed freedom of incantations. Among those arrested is the mayor of Tremestieri Etneo, Santi Rando. Under house arrest his political opponent, Mario Ronsisvalle, later his ally. Investigated for bribery and suspended from public office for one year was the Vice President of the Region and Regional Councillor for Agriculture, Luca Sammartino, who is also a leading member of the Sicilian League. Sammartino then resigned from the regional council.
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