Former Red Brigade Member Arrested in Argentina After Losing Refugee Status
Argentine authorities apprehend Leonardo Bertulazzi, a former Red Brigade member wanted in Italy. The arrest follows the revocation of his refugee status under President Milei's administration.
On August 29, 2024, Argentine authorities apprehended Leonardo Bertulazzi, a former member of the Red Brigades, in Buenos Aires. The arrest came after Bertulazzi lost his refugee status under the current administration of President Javier Milei.
Bertulazzi is sought by Italian authorities for his alleged involvement in various crimes during his time with the Red Brigades, a far-left terrorist organization that operated in Italy during the 1970s and 1980s. The charges against him reportedly include kidnapping and criminal association.
The Red Brigades, founded in 1970, were responsible for numerous acts of violence during their active years. The group carried out approximately 14,000 violent acts in their first decade of existence, targeting politicians, businessmen, journalists, and law enforcement officials. At its peak, the organization had 500 full-time members.
The Argentine government stated, "Bertulazzi is responsible for crimes that undermined democratic values and the lives of many victims." This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts to bring former members of terrorist organizations to justice, even decades after their alleged crimes.
The Red Brigades are infamous for their most notorious act: the kidnapping and murder of former Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro in 1978. This event, along with 85 other murders between 1974 and 1988, solidified the group's reputation as a significant threat to Italian society during the "Years of Lead," a period marked by political and social turmoil.
Bertulazzi's case raises questions about the balance between providing asylum for political refugees and ensuring justice for alleged criminals. Argentina has a history of granting asylum to political refugees from various countries, but the current administration under President Milei, known for his libertarian and right-wing policies, has taken a different approach.
The arrest of Bertulazzi may lead to his extradition to Italy, as the two countries have had an extradition treaty since 1987. This case serves as a reminder of the long-lasting impact of political violence and the ongoing efforts to address the legacy of terrorist activities from past decades.
"Bertulazzi is responsible for crimes that undermined democratic values and the lives of many victims."
As this case unfolds, it may prompt discussions about the rehabilitation of former terrorist group members, as some ex-Red Brigades members have renounced violence and participated in rehabilitation programs. However, for now, Bertulazzi faces the prospect of facing justice in Italy for his alleged crimes committed during a turbulent period in the country's history.
