The world of organized crime spans across continents, with various international mafias exerting influence over criminal enterprises and, in some cases, legitimate businesses and politics. Here's an overview of 10 of the most famous international mafias, known for their extensive operations, historical roots, and sometimes notorious leaders.
### 1. Sicilian Mafia (Cosa Nostra)
Origin: Italy
Founded: Mid-19th century
The Sicilian Mafia, or Cosa Nostra, is perhaps the most iconic of all mafias, with a strict code of conduct and a hierarchical structure. Known for its involvement in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering, Cosa Nostra has also infiltrated various sectors of the Italian economy.
### 2. 'Ndrangheta
Origin: Italy
Founded: Late 19th century
Based in Calabria, the 'Ndrangheta is renowned for its secretive nature and deep involvement in global cocaine trafficking. Its family-based structure has made it difficult for law enforcement to penetrate, contributing to its rise as one of the most powerful and wealthiest criminal organizations in the world.
### 3. Russian Mafia (Bratva)
Origin: Russia
Founded: Late 20th century
Post-Soviet Russia saw the rise of the Bratva, a term encompassing various organized crime groups. Known for their involvement in a wide range of criminal activities, from arms trafficking to cybercrime, the Russian Mafia has established a significant presence worldwide.
### 4. Yakuza
Origin: Japan
Founded: 17th century
The Yakuza is known for its strict codes of honor and complex hierarchical structure. Engaged in activities ranging from gambling to real estate and construction, the Yakuza has also been involved in more nefarious activities, including human trafficking and drug smuggling.
### 5. Triads
Origin: China
Founded: 18th century
The Triads are a collection of Chinese criminal organizations known for their involvement in drug trafficking, extortion, and counterfeiting. With origins tracing back to resistance movements against the Qing dynasty, modern Triads operate both in China and internationally.
### 6. Albanian Mafia
Origin: Albania
Founded: Late 20th century
The Albanian Mafia is known for its role in human trafficking, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling. With a presence in various European countries, this group is noted for its ruthlessness and loyalty among members.
### 7. Sinaloa Cartel
Origin: Mexico
Founded: Late 20th century
One of the most powerful drug trafficking organizations in the world, the Sinaloa Cartel is involved in the production, smuggling, and distribution of narcotics across the Americas and beyond. Its operations have contributed to the ongoing drug war in Mexico.
### 8. Los Zetas
Origin: Mexico
Founded: Early 21st century
Originally formed by defectors from Mexican special forces, Los Zetas is known for its extreme violence. Engaged in drug trafficking, human trafficking, and extortion, Los Zetas has been a formidable force in the Mexican drug war.
### 9. Camorra
Origin: Italy
Founded: 17th century
Based in Naples, the Camorra operates in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and murder. Known for its clan-based structure, the Camorra has a significant impact on the local economy and politics.
### 10. Balkan Mafia
Origin: Balkans
Founded: Late 20th century
The term "Balkan Mafia" refers to various criminal organizations operating in the Balkans, involved in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking. These groups have capitalized on the region's tumultuous history to establish a presence in European criminal networks.
### Conclusion
These organizations, while only a snapshot of global organized crime, illustrate the vast reach and varied nature of mafia activity worldwide. Their impact on society is profound, affecting everything from local economies to global politics. The fight against these groups remains a significant challenge for law enforcement and governments around the world, requiring international cooperation and comprehensive strategies to tackle their influence and operations.
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