Shot and arrested
Italian football fanatics are renown all over Europe, and the last incident involving “ultra” supporters prove it once again. A Napoli fan was arrested today after having a life saving operation.
Ciro Esposito did not see his favorite team winning Copoa Itallia 3-1 over Fiorentina because he was in surgery. The 30 year old was shot by another well known “ultra” supporter of Fiorentina. Italian Police said Esposito along with two other Napoli fans provoked Daniele De Santis who eventually shot them.
Esposito was rushed to hospital in Rome and had a live saving operation to remove a bullet that was still in his body, close to his spine. However, he was no pleased with what he saw when he woke up. Two Italian police members arresting him for fighting and provoking.
At the same time, De Santis was arrested for attempted murder. Nicknamed “Gastone” the 48-year old man was renowned across Italy for multiple violent incidents at football games. Police officials say he threw smoke grenades at Napoli fans which reacted violent. At that moment he pulled out his illegally owned gun and fired at them. A few fans, a firefighter and a police officer were injured in the clashes between fan sides and local enforcement.
“These incidents are simply unacceptable,” said Maurizio Beretta, the president of Serie A and Coppa Italia organiser. The final was almost canceled after these violent incidents and eventually started with a 45 minute delay under the eyes of Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi.