Retired Carabinieri commander, writer, and expert on Sardinia's criminal history: these are just a few ways to remember Giovanni Ricci, who died at the age of 66 last night in hospital in Olbia, where he had been admitted due to a recent illness.

Born in Aggius, his career in the Carabinieri ended in 2015: he served in the Carabinieri command in Olbia, Nuoro, and Cagliari, but he also took part in missions abroad and worked on the Italian mainland.

A Carabiniere in central Sardinia during the era of kidnappings and feuds, he was well acquainted with the dynamics and protagonists of banditry.

He authored six books that chronicle the island's criminal underworld, drawing on solid documentary evidence and an extensive bibliography. Ricci delved into historical archives and investigative files to rigorously expose the island's dark side.

On leave, he opened a private investigation agency in Olbia. His last job. He had recently returned to Aggius. Yesterday, his last breath.

Enrico Fresu

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