**Major Police Operation Targets Cosa Nostra in Sicily**

A significant operation involving over a thousand officers signals that Palermo's infamous Cosa Nostra remains a potent force.

Italian law enforcement succeeded in arresting 181 individuals suspected of being connected to the Cosa Nostra during extensive raids in Palermo and its surrounding areas. The operation took place early on Tuesday and involved approximately 1,200 police personnel, marking a substantial effort to counter the resurgent mafia organization.

Domenico La Padula, lieutenant colonel of the Carabinieri, discussed the ongoing challenges posed by the Cosa Nostra, asserting its apparent revival and adaptability despite concerted actions against it. According to La Padula, the investigation uncovered that the mafia had reorganized, integrating fresh recruits and pivoted towards new illicit avenues such as online gambling.

The reconsolidation of the Cosa Nostra indicates that it remains firmly rooted in the principles and historical customs that defined its inception. Law enforcement noted the group has adopted technology, using encrypted devices to minimize the need for traditional congregations and discussions, showcasing a level of modernization that complicates eradication efforts.

This latest round of arrests, which stemmed from a two-year investigation, encompassed a myriad of charges including drug trafficking, extortion, and attempted murder, demonstrating the breadth of their criminal operations. Visual reports displayed law enforcement bracing themselves for action, while aerial surveillance was utilized throughout the overnight raids.

Despite these arrests, the Carabinieri affirmed that the Cosa Nostra continues to assert significant influence over its territory, employing intimidation tactics and enforcing its will within the local economy. The enduring potential for violence was acknowledged, with the organization reportedly well-armed and unyielding in its control.