Asian couple in Rome shot in mafia -like act

Von WOM

A Chinese family who is presumably connected to triads was murdered in Rome on Monday evening, as the Italian Carabinieri announced in a statement. Zhang Dayong, 53 years old, and his wife Gong Xiaoqing, 38 years old, were shot by strangers during a bike tour in the Pignneto district. The perpetrators opened the fire on the two when they were on their bicycles.

murder victim and background

The police report that at least six shots were made. Weapons are extremely rare in Italy, even in cases that are connected to organized crime, because strict weapons laws make it more difficult to own and carry firearms. The investigators suspect that the motif of murder is linked to a so -called "war of the trailers" among Chinese gangsters who work in the textile sector. In particular, it is about the fast -moving fashion industry in the Tuscan city of Prato, which is located near Florence.

Zhang Dayong's role in organized crime

Zhang Dayong, who was nicknamed "Asheng", was on trial with 78 other people in Florence. They are accused of having coordinated illegal criminal activities in Italy, France, Germany and Spain. Zhang should testify in the coming weeks and was considered the deputy leader of one of the most powerful gangs that are active in Europe, as can be seen from court documents. Zhang denied the allegations of CNN who asked for a commentary by his legal representation.

Investigations and possible motifs

The process is the result of an investigation from 2018 called "China Truck", which examines human trafficking and the textile industry in connection with Chinese mafia groups across Europe. According to the Italian antimafia directorate, which led the original investigation, the double murder is considered to be revenge. So far no suspects have been arrested.

follow for the garment industry

The police warn that the murder may signal a break in the alliances among the "cartels" that control the clothing sector. Violence has risen lately, including a series of attempted murders, arson, arson and attacks in Tuscany, Madrid and Paris, which are connected to these gangs.

CNN made a statement to the Chinese message in Rome.