The arrests were made as part of an ongoing operation to dismantle the criminal network's grip on the New York carting and demolition industries.

The indicted individuals faced a total of 16 charges, which include racketeering conspiracy, extortion, witness retaliation, and union-related crimes. The unsealed indictment, presented in federal court in Brooklyn, alleged that the defendants engaged in a series of violent acts and illegal activities aimed at exerting dominance over the targeted industries.

U.S. Attorney Breon Peace described the crimes committed by the defendants as "violent extortions, assaults, arson, witness retaliation, and other criminal activities." These actions were allegedly carried out over several years, as the defendants sought to establish control and intimidate their rivals.

Among the suspects, Diego "Danny" Tantillo, a reputed soldier of the Gambino crime family, along with associates Vito Rappa and Kyle "Twin" Johnson, were implicated in a particularly violent incident. Prosecutors claimed that they threatened a victim in the carting business with a baseball bat, set fire to the steps of his house, damaged one of his trucks, and assaulted an associate.

The investigation carried out by law enforcement agencies, both domestic and international, culminated in the arrests of these individuals. "Today's arrests reflect the commitment of this Office and our law enforcement partners, both here and abroad, to keep our communities safe by the complete dismantling of organized crime," stated U.S. Attorney Breon Peace.

Heading the list of suspects was Joseph Lanni, also known as "Joe Brooklyn" or "Mommino," alleged to be a captain in the Gambino crime family. Accompanying him were soldiers Angelo "Fifi" Gradilone and James LaForte, who also face charges related to their affiliation with the crime syndicate.

Additionally, Gambino associates Francesco "Uncle Ciccio" Vicari, Salvatore DiLorenzo, Robert Brooke, and Vincent "Vinny Slick" Minsquero were identified as being involved in the illegal activities targeted by the indictment.

The joint efforts of law enforcement agencies underline a strong determination to bring an end to organized crime's stranglehold on various industries. With these arrests, authorities aim to disrupt the operations of the Gambino crime family and ensure the safety of the communities affected by their criminal activities.

The indicted individuals will now face the legal consequences of their alleged actions as the case unfolds in federal court. The enforcement operation sends a clear message that law enforcement agencies will continue to work diligently to dismantle organized crime networks and protect the well-being of the public.