Explosive Device Destroys Journalist Sigfrido Ranucci’s Car

An explosive device detonated under the car of prominent Italian journalist Sigfrido Ranucci outside his home in Pomezia, south of Rome, early on March 15, 2024. The incident, which did not result in injuries, has been condemned as a serious act of intimidation. The blast completely destroyed Ranucci’s vehicle and caused damage to a second family car as well as a nearby residence.

The investigative program Report, which Ranucci anchors, reported that the explosion was powerful enough to potentially harm anyone passing by at the time. Authorities, including police and forensic teams, are currently investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about journalist safety in Italy.

In response to the attack, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her solidarity with Ranucci and condemned the incident. In a statement, she emphasized the importance of freedom and independence of the press, stating, “These are essential values of our democracies, which we will continue to defend.”

“Freedom and independence of information are essential values of our democracies,”

Meloni added, highlighting the critical role that journalism plays in society.

Report is one of the few investigative programs airing on Italian television, known for breaking significant stories involving notable Italian politicians, business leaders, and public figures. Just days before the explosion, Ranucci was cleared in a defamation case related to one of the program’s investigative reports, underscoring the tensions surrounding his work.

The incident has sparked discussions on the increasing risks faced by journalists in Italy, particularly those involved in investigative reporting. Ranucci’s experience is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who seek to uncover the truth and hold powerful individuals accountable. As the investigation unfolds, the broader implications for press freedom and public safety in Italy remain a significant concern.