Italian bankrupted by Mafia sells his own organs

An Italian businessman who campaigned against the mafia has put his organs up for sale in a desperate bid to raise cash after gangsters destroyed his property and scared off clients, he said.

Ignazio Cutro’, who co-founded the anti-mafia association Libere Terre (Free Lands), said that he has been ruined by the mafia and that the authorities have abandoned him to his fate, refusing all requests for help.

“I’m selling my organs and body parts to prevent my business from going under and to try to keep a roof over our heads,” said the 44-year-old construction industry entrepreneur from Agrigento in southern Italy.

Mr Cutro’ said that for the past 11 years he has been the victim of an organised crime gang that demanded protection money and, when he refused to pay, systematically targeted his home and workplace.

“If you refuse to pay up, they destroy you,” he said. “They have vandalised my property, setting things alight and leaving bullets” as a warning.

Eight people were arrested after Mr Cutro’ went to the authorities, but the threats continue and he said the gang took its revenge by scaring off potential business clients.

“I’ve received anonymous letters at home. One said: ‘Let’s see if you remain this honest until a coma, or death.’”

Mr Cutro’ said he still believes he did the right thing in denouncing the extortion, but accused officials of turning a blind eye to his plight.

“I’m doing everything to stop the mafia from winning and have taken out loans to try to keep my business afloat, but the bank wants the money – €250,000– by next Tuesday,” he said.

“The state doesn’t care. They don’t want to undermine the mafia. They like to keep a close relationship,” he said.

With bankruptcy looming, Mr Cutro’ said he has resorted to selling his organs or body parts to the highest bidder.

“Don’t think I’m joking... I’m open to offers from anyone who wants a kidney, a bit of my liver, a leg,” he said. “Anything to stop the mafia winning.”