Lavitola case: fugitive Tavares announces return to Italy despite arrest warrant
Gomes Clesio Tavares, a wanted Cameroonian citizen, declared to Tg1 that he wants to return to Italy. Regarding Lavitola, considered the instigator of the attack on journalist Ranucci, he expresses scepticism.
Tavares speaks from Africa: "I am stubborn, I want to return"
Gomes Clesio Tavares, a fugitive Cameroonian citizen indicated as mediator in the explosive attack against journalist Sigfrido Ranucci of Report, gave an exclusive interview to Tg1 stating he was ready to return to Italy "very soon". This is reported by Corriere della Sera - Cronache.
The man was in Africa at the time of the interview, together with the news broadcast journalist. Despite a precautionary custody order issued against him, Tavares firmly reiterated his intention: "Even if everyone tells me no, but I am stubborn. They say they will arrest me at the airport, but I am stubborn. And I want to return".
Scepticism over Lavitola's alleged confessions
During the interview, Tavares also commented on news relating to Valter Lavitola, a former entrepreneur already in custody together with four other people and considered by the public prosecutor's office to be the instigator of the bombing. According to reports, Lavitola allegedly made confessions that would directly involve Tavares.
The Cameroonian, however, rejected these reconstructions: "I would like to see. My relationship with Lavitola goes beyond work. We have always been together. Why should I be angry with him? He has never done anything bad to me". He then added: "That is what you say, I am not sure, I do not believe it".
The attack on Ranucci and ongoing investigations
Tavares is considered by investigators a central figure in the case concerning the explosive attack against Sigfrido Ranucci, journalist and presenter of the investigative programme Report. Lavitola, already known to the courts, is in custody together with four other suspects in the same matter.
Tavares's statements, made public despite his fugitive status, represent an unusual element in the picture of the ongoing investigations.
Source: Corriere della Sera - Cronache