ROME – Rome authorities began the demolition of eight villas illegally built by the Casamonica clan early on Tuesday morning, police sources report.

 Mayor of the Eternal City Virginia Raggi also announced the start of the project on her Facebook page, adding, “this is an historic day for the city of Rome and its citizens. It brings to an end 30 years of disrespect for the law and represents a strong signal against crime and the Casamonica clan.” The demolitions, the mayor promised, would be finished by New Year.

  Dawn raids on Monday morning carried out by around 600 police officers removed 30 Casamonica clan members from the villas, uncovering incredibly luxurious houses. The gang are known for their extravagance and decorated their houses with gilded fixtures and animal statues. Raggi and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini were present at the raid, during which drugs were also found. Salvini hailed the 10-month operation co-ordinated by Raggi in conjunction with police authorities, saying, “it’s a good sign for Rome.”

Leading up to the demolition, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte visited the Casamonica villas on Via del Quadraro and expressed his amazement at the level of wealth he observed. “So much pomp, so much luxury,” Conte commented on his departure from the villas.

 Italy’s populist government has specifically targeted these Casamonica-owned properties, managing to confiscate one in June shortly after entering office. The clan has been outspoken against Salvini and his League party in the past, heavily criticising the Interior Minister’s plan to carry out a census of Rome’s population. “Law and order are returning piece by piece to the city. The gravy train (for criminals) is over … this is not the first instance, nor will it be the last” Salvini added, resolute in his mission to clamp down on criminal activity in Italy.