Bomb targets investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci’s car near Rome

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
17 Oct 2025 14:05

A bomb destroyed the car of Italian investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci in Pomezia, near Rome.

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Parts of a car are seen on the ground as Carabinieri military police stand outside the home of investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci after an explosive device detonated under the car, in Pomezia, Italy, on October 17, 2025. (AP)

A powerful explosion destroyed the car of prominent Italian investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci overnight in Pomezia, south of Rome, authorities and his television program Report confirmed on Friday. No one was injured in the attack, though the blast also damaged a second family vehicle and a neighboring house.

Report, which airs on public broadcaster RAI, described the explosion as “so strong that it could have killed anyone passing by at the moment.” Ranucci is known for his in-depth investigations into corruption, organized crime, and misconduct in Italian politics and business.

Government condemns attack

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni strongly condemned the bombing, calling it “a serious act of intimidation.” She emphasized that “the freedom and independence of information are non-negotiable values of our democracies, which we will continue to defend.”

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi ordered an increase in Ranucci’s security to the highest level, describing the attack as “cowardly and extremely serious” and stating that it represents an assault not only on the journalist but on press freedom and democratic values.

The attack highlights the ongoing risks faced by investigative journalists in Italy. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Italy ranks 49th globally for press freedom. RSF noted that journalists who investigate organized crime and corruption are often threatened or subjected to violence, with around 20 reporters currently living under permanent police protection.

Ranucci himself has faced legal challenges in the past, including defamation lawsuits, but was recently acquitted in a case related to one of Report’s investigations. The motives behind the bombing remain unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility, but authorities are investigating whether organized crime may be involved.