Lavitola appears before prosecutors for two hours, 'stunned, it wasn't me'

Valter Lavitola spent two hours with prosecutors, vehemently denying accusations that he orchestrated an attack on journalist Sigfrido Ranucci. Lavitola asserted his innocence, stating he was "stunned" and had no idea who was responsible or the motive behind the incident.

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I am stunned, it wasn't me, I don't know who it could have been and I have no idea of the motive.

Lavitola emphasized the "brotherly friendship" he shares with Ranucci, describing their relationship as one where they see each other almost daily and their families socialize. He argued that such a close bond is incompatible with any motive for orchestrating an attack.

Regarding his presence near Ranucci's home approximately one month before the October 16 incident, Lavitola explained that he frequently visited Ranucci there. This detail had been cited in the search warrant executed by the Carabinieri.

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We see each other almost every day, our families socialize - we often go to dinner. It's such a close friendship that it's incompatible with any kind of motive.

Lavitola also addressed the alleged intermediary, Gomes Clesio Tavares, stating he did not send him to Cameroon and that Tavares is often in his country of origin for business related to carbon credits. Lavitola's statements will now be evaluated by investigators, who may re-convene Ranucci for further questioning.

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I often went there to visit Ranucci.