Three police officers have been killed after they opened a door to a rural Italian farmhouse that had been intentionally filled with gas, igniting a massive explosion.
The Italian carabinieri officers had been sent to the property near the northeastern city of Verona to evict three siblings who had occupied the abandoned building about a year ago.
Another 11 carabinieri (the national militarised police force of Italy), three state police officers and a firefighter were also injured in the blast.
Verona’s carabinieri commander, Colonel Claudio Pagano, said the action of the people inside was “an absolutely crazy gesture”.
He added: “While our carabinieri were carrying out a judicial order, they were hit by an intentional explosion of a gas tank.”
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and defence minister Guido Crosetto each expressed their condolences for the deaths of the carabinieri.
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In an X post, Ms Meloni said it was with “deep sorrow” that she had learned of “the developments of this dramatic affair”, adding it “reminds us of the value and daily sacrifice of those who serve Italy and its citizens”.
The post continued: “My condolences, and those of the Government, go to the families of the victims.
“My thoughts also go to all the Law Enforcement Forces and to the Firefighters, who every day operate with dedication and courage in service to the State.
“To the injured I extend my wishes for a speedy recovery, and thanks go to the healthcare personnel and to all those who intervened with timeliness and professionalism.”
Regional governor Luca Zaia said it was the second time authorities had attempted to evict the siblings.
They tried last year but were thwarted when they had threatened to blow up the house in the town of Castel d’Azzano, six miles (10km) southwest Verona.
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A brother and a sister in their 60s were detained in the explosion, while a third member of the same family, 65-year-old man, was apprehended in countryside near the property while on the run.
Verona chief public prosecutor Raffaele Tito described it as an “incredible tragedy”.
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He said the three suspects would be questioned later on Tuesday.
“They will undoubtedly be charged with premeditated murder,” he said, adding: “I am considering also charging them with massacre.”
