Reuters
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A bomb exploded in front of Italy’s top investigative journalist’s home late Thursday, damaging two cars and a nearby home, prompting messages of solidarity from colleagues and politicians.
Sigfrid Ranucci, the host of RAI’s weekly Report, Italy’s most famous investigative program, has been under police protection for years. He said he and his spokesperson had received numerous threats of various kinds, including bullets.
The rudimentary device, likely made from fireworks explosives, was placed outside the main gate of Ranucci’s home in Campo Ascolano, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Rome, journalists told state broadcaster RAI on Friday.
He added that the explosion occurred about 20 minutes after he returned home.
Both cars owned by Ranucci and his daughter were virtually destroyed. No one was injured, and Ranucci said, “Aside from the shock, everything is fine.”
The reporter said he could not say whether the bomb was related to his work. ANSA news agency reported that anti-Mafia prosecutors have begun investigating criminal damage caused by mafia-style methods that aggravated the situation.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the “grave acts of intimidation”, adding: “Freedom of information and independence are values essential to our democracy and we will continue to uphold them.”
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said Mr Ranucci’s police escort would be strengthened.
The Report often clashed with the government, resulting in several members of Meloni’s right-wing coalition, including Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti, Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, her Italian Brotherhood party, and minister Gaetano Capti to denounce the program.
