Violent Raid at Mugello Wind Farm Site in Tuscany

A violent raid at the wind farm construction site on Monte Giogo del Villore in the Mugello area has shocked Tuscany and prompted widespread condemnation. According to the energy company Agsm Aim, which is overseeing the project, around 50 masked individuals—some allegedly wielding knives—stormed the site on July 2 and again the following evening, threatening engineers and forestry workers and causing significant damage to equipment and infrastructure.

The group reportedly entered the site unlawfully, surrounded the workers, seized chainsaws, and intimidated three engineers before forcing them to leave the area. The following night, further sabotage was reported, with construction vehicles in a remote area of the site severely damaged after security forces had temporarily left the scene.

The attack, described as an act of “eco-terrorism” by some political figures, is believed to be linked to a protest initiative organized by a group calling itself “Siamo Montagna,” which had announced a “Camp of Resistance” aimed at halting the project. The company had previously filed complaints with the police and issued a legal warning in response to flyers distributed in the area.

The Florence Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation, currently without named suspects, with potential charges including aggravated damage, robbery, threats, and intent to subvert public order. Prosecutors are also examining complaints from environmental groups concerning the scope and conduct of the construction project itself.

The incident has drawn sharp reactions from institutions, environmental groups, and industry representatives. Regional councilors, trade associations, and the Order of Engineers of Florence have all condemned the violence, emphasizing that protest and dissent must remain within the bounds of law and democratic dialogue.

WWF Italy joined the condemnation, reiterating that while renewable energy infrastructure must be developed responsibly and in dialogue with local communities, violence cannot be tolerated. Similarly, the environmental coalition Tess distanced itself from the attack but warned against framing all opposition to large-scale renewable energy projects as misinformation or extremism, calling instead for greater transparency and public participation.

As the investigation proceeds, calls are growing for an institutional roundtable that brings together authorities, communities, and associations to restore a climate of trust and dialogue around the energy transition in Tuscany.

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