Calabrian Officials Charged for Illegally Shipping Waste to Greece
The investigation into illegal waste shipping from Calabria to Greece has led to serious charges against several officials. This organized operation aimed to exploit loopholes regarding hazardous waste classification and European shipping regulations.
Background of the Investigation
Coordinated by the Bari Public Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation focuses on Servizi Ecologici, a company based in Tarsia, Cosenza. An emergency decree has barred its owner from conducting any business activities for twelve months. Additionally, the company’s operational and administrative locations, along with its instrumental goods, have been seized.
Key Players Involved
Six individuals have been indicted in connection with this case. They include:
- Giosè Marchese (68) – Owner of Servizi Ecologici, Cosenza
- Pasqualino Caparrotta (42) – Technical director, Lamezia Terme
- Gianfranco Comito (68) – Department head, Vibo Valentia
- Gabriele Alitto (48) – Department manager, Cosenza
- Clementina Torchia (46) – Project manager, Lamezia Terme
- Claudia Russo (50) – Project manager, Catanzaro
These individuals allegedly issued permits and released guarantees in violation of required oversight, facilitating the illegal waste shipments.
Details of the Waste Shipment
The investigation began in November 2021 during routine checks at the port of Bari. Authorities discovered shipments classified under CER code 191212, which signifies “other waste produced from mechanical treatment.” This classification enabled the illegal export of urban waste to Greece.
Investigators traced about 7,000 tonnes of waste that were illegally shipped from Bari and Brindisi to a facility in Greece that was only authorized for intermediate waste processing, not final recovery operations.
Allegations of Misconduct
Central to the inquiry is the alleged fabrication of final recovery operations. Documentation claimed that energy recovery processes were performed, which, according to the investigation, did not occur. This false information allowed for the release of guarantees mandated by European regulations regarding waste shipments.
The estimated financial gain from these illegal activities is approximately €1,676,999.80, which has prompted the authorities to seek equivalent asset seizures.
Conclusion
This case underscores the importance of stringent regulation and oversight in waste management. As the investigation unfolds, further developments are expected regarding the individuals and entities involved in this illicit operation.
