The Prosecutor of Catanzaro asked for the indictment of several doctors involved in the investigation called Grecale who brought to light an illicit system within the Magna Graecia University and the Provincial Health Authority (ASP) of Catanzaro. The gup then set the first hearing for November 28th. The accusations include serious crimes such as corruption, false, aggravated fraud and mistreatment of animals held in university laboratories. There are 27 suspects, the offended parties 16 including UMG and the Ministry of Health.
The investigation, born following the complaint filed by “Leal Antivivisectionist League” and by various associations, has revealed a system of favors between university and health managers, systematic corruption in the inspections and continuous violations of the regulations provided for by Legislative Decree no. 26/2014, which should guarantee the welfare of animals used for scientific purposes.
“This story confirms how urgent a more rigorous and transparent control is on the conditions of the animals used in scientific experimentation. It is not possible that the protection of animal welfare remains subject to economic and power interests – declares Gian Marco Prampolini, president of Leal -. Our association will continue to supervise and denounce any abuse, for the definitive abolition of these inhuman practices “. Leal will continue to report promptly to the competent authorities irregularity found or reported and invites institutions to strengthen controls and to promote a real adoption of replacement methods to vivisection.