More about the Camorra

The Camorra is one of Italy's oldest and largest mafia-type criminal organizations, originating in the Campania region and centered around Naples.

Dating back to the 18th century, it operates through a decentralized network of independent autonomous groups called "clans" rather than a single unified hierarchy.
Origins and Structure
Roots:
Formed in the impoverished streets of Naples, initially evolving from protection rackets around illegal street gambling.
Clan System:
Composed of roughly 180 independent clans and thousands of members, leading to shifting alliances and internal turf wars.
Generational Shifts:
Modern factions sometimes see younger, volatile street groups ("baby gangs") disrupt traditional codes and hierarchies.

Core Criminal Activities
DrugTrafficking:
Controlling major international drug supply lines and local open-air markets.
Extortion and Racketeering:
Levying protection taxes (pizzo) on local businesses and municipal contracts.
Illicit Economies:
Deep involvement in counterfeiting, illegal toxic waste disposal, money laundering, and public contract infiltration.