Valter Lavitola investigated as instigator in bomb attack on Italian journalist Sigfrido Ranucci
Italian entrepreneur Valter Lavitola is under investigation as the alleged instigator of the October 2025 explosive attack on journalist Sigfrido Ranucci in Rome. Carabinieri searched his property and seized devices on July 6.
The attack
In October 2025, an explosive device was detonated against journalist Sigfrido Ranucci, host of the investigative program Report, in Rome. The attack caused damage and threats, but no fatalities were reported. The case has been under investigation by the Rome District Anti-Mafia Directorate (DDA) since.
New suspect emerges
On July 6, 2026, Carabinieri searched the home and office of Valter Lavitola, an entrepreneur and former journalist-editor with a history of legal troubles. Prosecutors now suspect Lavitola of being the instigator of the attack, acting together with another person. His mobile phone and computer were seized for forensic analysis.
Criminal profile of extremely high dangerousness.
Four arrested as material executors
Last Tuesday, June 30, authorities arrested three men and one woman accused of physically planting and detonating the bomb. They face charges of possession, carrying in public, and use of an explosive device, as well as threat and damage. The charges are aggravated by the use of mafia methods and involvement of more than five people.
Investigation and motive
The investigation is led by chief prosecutor Francesco Lo Voi, with prosecutors Carlo Villani (now head of the Velletri office) and Edoardo De Santis of the DDA. The motive remains under active investigation. No precautionary measures have been requested for Lavitola at this stage.
- Explosive device detonated against journalist Sigfrido Ranucci in Rome.
- Four people arrested as material executors of the attack.
- Valter Lavitola searched and placed under investigation as alleged instigator.
