The Underworld Podcast The World's Most Powerful Cocaine Broker: Inside the 'Ndrangheta with Antonio Talia
Apr 18, 2023
Antonio Talia, a Calabrian crime reporter and journalist, shares intriguing insights into the 'Ndrangheta, the powerful criminal organization that has eclipsed the Sicilian Mafia. He discusses its transformation from a self-defense militia to a global drug trafficking network, detailing figures like Rocco Morabito, the so-called cocaine king of Milan. Talia explains how the group evolved from high-profile kidnappings in the 1980s to dominating Europe's cocaine trade, revealing the complex hierarchy and cultural influences that shaped this notorious syndicate.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rocco Morabito's Discovery
- Rocco Morabito, a high-ranking 'Ndrangheta member, was discovered in Uruguay in 2017 after registering his daughter at a school under her real name.
- This seemingly minor slip-up exposed his 25-year fugitive status, highlighting his significance within the global criminal landscape.
'Ndrangheta's Origins
- The 'Ndrangheta's origins trace back to a Calabrian self-defense militia formed to protect against pirates and raiders.
- This militia's secretive nature and code of silence laid the groundwork for its transformation into a powerful criminal organization.
'Ndrangheta's Structure
- The 'Ndrangheta isn't led by a single boss but by a group called the Crimine.
- This group acts as a supreme court, enforcing rules and collecting funds for imprisoned members, but doesn't dictate operational decisions.