Argentina searches for former italian brigades member after house arrest escape; $13,000 reward offered

Escape and search

Bertulazzi left a fifth-floor apartment by climbing down with a rope and harness, according to the report. Argentine authorities began a nationwide search after discovering he had escaped house arrest.

Officials said they did not immediately realize he was missing because his electronic ankle monitor had been tampered with. They said it was placed inside a device with a thermal blanket, grease or animal fat, and apparently a way to keep moisture in.

Case tied to Aldo Moro

Bertulazzi, 74, belonged to the Genoa branch of Italy’s far-left Red Brigades. Argentine authorities have said he handled logistics for the group’s kidnapping of former Prime Minister Aldo Moro. The Red Brigades carried out kidnappings and killings in Italy during the 1970s and 1980s, a period called the “Years of Lead.” Moro was kidnapped and killed in 1978.

Extradition and refugee status

An Italian court convicted Bertulazzi in absentia over his part in the kidnapping and death of Moro. Argentina revoked his refugee status under President Javier Milei, who leads a right-wing government.

Bertulazzi was arrested in Buenos Aires in November 2002. An Argentine judge turned down Italy’s extradition request in 2003, citing the lack of a guaranteed new trial under Italian law for someone convicted in absentia; he received refugee status in 2004.

Reward and Italian response

Argentina’s Security Ministry has set a reward of 20 million pesos, approximately $13,000, for information that leads to Bertulazzi’s capture. Wanda Ferro, an undersecretary in Italy’s Interior Ministry, said Argentine police were responsible for ensuring his transfer to Italy. Ferro told local television, “I am certain that every effort will be made.” She said she hoped extradition could happen “very quickly” if Bertulazzi is recaptured.