A novel macabre ritual of the Italian Mafia ('Ndrangheta): covering hands with gloves and burying the corpse with burnt lime after execution

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2011 Mar;32(1):44-6. doi: 10.1097/PAF.0b013e3181efbbf2.

Abstract

'Ndrangheta is one of the famous "4 Mafias," which typically insists in Southern Italy. A particular case of 'Ndrangheta-related homicide double execution by means of multiple gunshots is presented. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of `Ndrangheta's homicidal modality (covering hands with gloves and burying) as a macabre ritual. In homicides committed by criminal organization, the method used as well as the positioning of the body follow a macabre ritual laden with significance and intending to be an admonition to other persons.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Burial*
  • Calcium Compounds
  • Ceremonial Behavior*
  • Fires
  • Forensic Pathology
  • Gloves, Protective
  • Head Injuries, Penetrating / pathology
  • Homicide*
  • Humans
  • Italy
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / injuries
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / pathology
  • Male
  • Oxides
  • Wounds, Gunshot / pathology

Substances

  • Calcium Compounds
  • Oxides
  • lime