In a significant development, Buenos Aires police have apprehended Leonardo Bertulazzi, a former member of Italy’s notorious Red Brigades, who has been sought by Italian authorities for his involvement in serious crimes committed during his time with the militant group.
The Argentine government announced the arrest on Thursday, revealing that Bertulazzi had been living in Argentina for years under refugee status, which was revoked by the current administration of President Javier Milei.
Bertulazzi faces accusations of severe offenses, including kidnapping and criminal association. The Argentine government underscored his responsibility for actions that severely undermined democratic values and inflicted harm on numerous victims.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the news, noting that Bertulazzi had already been sentenced in Italy to 27 years in prison for terrorism-related activities. His capture represents a crucial victory in Italy’s long-standing efforts to hold former Red Brigades members accountable for their crimes.
The Red Brigades, active in Italy during the 1970s and 1980s, were infamous for their violent acts, including the kidnapping and murder of former Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro. Their activities contributed to a period of intense political violence and terrorism in Italy.
Bertulazzi’s arrest may have wider repercussions for Argentina’s asylum policies and its diplomatic relations with Italy, particularly concerning the handling of individuals linked to terrorist groups.
The Argentine government has not yet outlined the next steps regarding Bertulazzi’s potential extradition to Italy.
