The recent bombing outside the home of investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci, host of the prominent TV news program Report on RAI, Italy’s public broadcaster, has been condemned as a threat to press freedom in Italy. The explosion, which damaged two cars belonging to Ranucci’s family, occurred late on Thursday in Campo Ascolano, near Rome. Fortunately, Ranucci and his family members were unharmed.
Ranucci, who has faced threats for his investigative work over the past decade, including increased police protection since 2009 and an assassination threat in 2021, remains resolute in continuing his work despite the attack. The bombing has triggered an investigation by anti-mafia prosecutors due to its potential connections to organized crime.
The incident has shocked Ranucci’s team, as violence against journalists is not uncommon in Italy, particularly in areas influenced by organized crime. Report has garnered criticism from various entities, including politicians, corporations, foreign governments, and criminal syndicates, for its exposes on corruption and crime. The list of possible suspects is extensive, making it challenging to pinpoint the perpetrators.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni denounced the bombing as a severe act of intimidation, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedom and independence of information. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) also condemned the attack, stressing the need for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Despite the bombing, Ranucci and his team are determined to proceed with the upcoming season of Report. While RAI provides security and the government has pledged additional protection for Ranucci, not all journalists in Italy have similar resources. Ciccolella, Ranucci’s colleague, emphasized the importance of vigilance for journalists, especially those involved in investigative reporting, urging them to remain steadfast in their duty while staying cautious.