THIS is the shocking moment members of the Sicilian mafia fire AK47s while riding scooters behind an illegal horse-and-cart race.
Terrifying footage shows the gangsters speeding down a countryside road on the back of scooters as frightened horses gallop ahead.
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Mafia members can be seen holding firearms aloft Credit: Enrico Rizzi
They are hot on the heels of an illegal horse-and-cart race Credit: Enrico Rizzi
Around them, drivers and riders repeatedly fire weapons into the air in a bid to spur the terrified animals on.
The video, shared online by animal rights activist Enrico Rizzi, triggered a major police response.
Authorities raided several private properties, rescuing horses found without legal registration or microchips.
The animals have since been handed over to an animal care company.
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Two men were arrested in the aftermath of the incident Credit: Enrico Rizzi
Mafia bosses often use the races as a means to establish control Credit: Enrico Rizzi
Police also identified two men – a stable owner and a jockey – who later admitted taking part in the race.
“The race was illegal, but not clandestine,” Rizzi said.
“It took place on a trafficked road in broad daylight.”
The race was staged on Friday near Palagonia, a small town in eastern Sicily.
Criminologist Ciro Troiano said: “It is a blatant display of criminality, complete with the brandishing of Kalashnikovs.
“The message is clear and unmistakable: we’re in charge here.
Illegal horse races are believed to generate hundreds of thousands of euros in betting revenue every year.
The events have long been linked to organised crime in southern Italy where criminal groups use them to display power, shut down public roads and reinforce territorial control.
The races are often organised in isolated areas, allowing participants to avoid police checks and conceal their identities.
Horses, ponies and even minors are sometimes involved.
Italian authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on the races in recent years.
According to the latest figures, 70 people were referred to the prosecutor’s office and two arrested for participating in illegal horse races in 2024.
Both Troiano and Rizzi warn police still lack the legal powers needed to dismantle the criminal networks running these events.
Current laws prevent officers from arresting participants caught in the act or using undercover investigators, while punishments remain relatively light.
“Organisers hardly ever end up in prison,” Rizzi said.
“Tomorrow, they’ll put together another race.”
