Police raid on Alitalia adds intrigue to rescue efforts

The rescue of financially-troubled Italian flagship carrier Alitalia has featured elements of politics and patriotism, late night talks with unions in smoke-filled rooms, flight attendants protesting at the office of the prime minister, and now a raid by the police adding an element of what might turn out to be illegal activity.

On Tuesday, police officers working with the Italian revenue guard turned up at the Alitalia headquarters in Rome and left the offices of the bankrupt airline with financial records spanning the last 10 years.

Officials opened an inquiry into the carrier’s finances after bankruptcy protection was sought on 29 August. The police were acting on a petition filed by the consumer advocacy group, Codacons, representing the interests of the airline’s employees and shareholders.

The president Codacons, Carlo Rienzi, was pleased that the raid had been carried out. “Now we want the responsibilities and names of those who have brought about, or contributed to, the wrecking of Alitalia to be determined and made public.”

No suspects have been named thus far, according to reports in the Italian media.

The police operation was carried out as government officials, union leaders and potential investors were conducting last-minute meetings to hammer out a deal that would save the failing airline.

www.alitalia.com