Italian investigators find chat links in attempted assassination case

Investigators have reportedly uncovered chat conversations that allegedly link Valter Lavitola and his associate Gomes Clesio Tavares to a criminal gang implicated in an attempted assassination.

The messages, found on Tavares's phone, are said to confirm a connection between him and Pellegrino D’Avino, described as an bodyguard from Avellino, and his "fire group," which includes Antonio Passariello, Saverio Mutone, and Marika De Filippis. These individuals are considered the alleged executors and instigators of the attack.

The investigation also highlights Tavares's criminal profile, with evidence suggesting he maintained contact with individuals linked to the Camorra clan through multiple phone lines. Investigators believe Tavares played a role of "singular investigative importance" in the case.

While the investigation has shed light on the alleged perpetrators, the motive behind the attempted assassination of Sigfrido Ranucci remains unclear. Investigators are reportedly focusing on Lavitola's financial activities, seeking to determine who financed him and for what purpose. They are exploring the possibility of secret accounts and examining his income sources, believing this could clarify the motive. Intercepted conversations suggest a figure referred to as "the boss" may have been involved, with one alleged perpetrator stating, "When I saw Pellegrino, the boss gave me 7,000 euros."