BTN News: Two key figures, Ricardo “Rengo” Ficadenti and Sergio “Bebe” Di Vanni, were arrested in Rosario, Argentina. These men are linked to the threats against footballer Ángel Di María. These threats led Di María to stay away from Rosario Central because he felt unsafe. The arrested men are from the “barra brava” of Newell’s Old Boys, a rival club of Rosario Central. This arrest is a big step in dealing with the violence in the city.
Details About the Men Who Were Arrested and Their Connection to Football Violence
Ricardo “Rengo” Ficadenti is 30 years old, and Sergio “Bebe” Di Vanni is 43 years old. They were arrested early Thursday morning in Rosario. They are known leaders in the “barra brava” of Newell’s Old Boys. The Ministry of Security of Santa Fe province, where Rosario is located, confirmed their arrest.
Background on the Long-Standing Rivalry Between Newell’s Old Boys and Rosario Central and Its Consequences
Rosario is about 300 kilometers north of Buenos Aires. The city has two main football clubs: Newell’s Old Boys and Rosario Central. These clubs have a long history of rivalry. This rivalry often leads to violence. The city also has problems with drug-related crime. Clashes between the “barras bravas” of both clubs have been frequent and violent.
The Impact of Threats on Ángel Di María’s Decision to Avoid Returning to Rosario Central for Safety Reasons
Ángel Di María, known as “Fideo,” decided not to return to Rosario Central. He felt it was not safe. The club’s president, Gonzalo Belloso, confirmed Di María’s decision. Di María will continue to play for the Portuguese club Benfica. This decision shows how serious the threats were.
Specifics About the Threats Made Against Di María and His Family That Led to His Decision
The threats against Di María happened in March. The threats took place in a private neighborhood outside Rosario. The men left a bag with a card for the “Di María Family.” The note said, “Ni (Maximiliano) Pullaro te va a salvar,” referring to the governor of Santa Fe. These threats made Di María and his family feel unsafe.
Legal Actions Taken and Ongoing Investigations Regarding the Threats Against Di María
Prosecutor Pablo Socca ordered the arrests. He is leading the investigation into the threats. Earlier, in April, a 35-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman were arrested. They are also linked to the threats. They are still in preventive detention. After Ficadenti and Di Vanni were arrested, authorities did seven more raids. They found over 20 million pesos (about $20,000) and eight mobile phones.
Ricardo “Rengo” Ficadenti’s Previous Involvement in Violent Crimes and Football-Related Activities
Ficadenti has a criminal past. He was involved in the murder of Nelson “Chivo” Saravia. Saravia was the head of Newell’s “barra brava.” He was killed in October 2021. Ficadenti was put in preventive detention for 60 days for this crime. This shows Ficadenti’s deep involvement in violent football activities.
Statements from Ángel Di María’s Family on the Severity of the Threats They Received
Jorgelina Cardoso, Di María’s wife, spoke about the threats. She said the public only knows part of what happened. She said the situation was “very delicate and very ‘heavy.'” Her words highlight the serious nature of the threats and why Di María decided to stay away from Rosario Central.
Conclusion About the Importance of the Arrests and the Need for Continued Efforts to Ensure Safety in Rosario
The arrest of Ficadenti and Di Vanni is a big step in dealing with the threats against Di María. This situation shows the challenges in Rosario, where football rivalries and crime create safety problems. Authorities will keep working to make sure everyone is safe and to bring peace to the city’s football scene.
