 Antonio La Torre has challenged extradition plans |
An Aberdeen businessman with alleged mafia links has made a last-minute appeal against his extradition to Italy to face charges. BBC Scotland has learned that Antonio La Torre, 49, claimed his life would be in danger if he set foot in Naples.
Mr La Torre has been facing allegations of robbery, extortion and the production of counterfeit money.
Extradition papers were signed by Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson last month.
The businessman and restaurateur has been accused of leading a mafia-style gang known as the La Torre Clan.
He has been in custody since March and in September a sheriff ruled that there were grounds for him to be extradited.
Final decision
During extradition proceedings at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Crown lawyers alleged that Mr La Torre was the person who "organised, oversaw, manipulated and executed" various acts of extortion and other crimes.
The case was referred to Ms Jamieson for a final decision.
She signed the papers on Monday, 28 November and at that time the Scottish Executive said Mr La Torre's legal team had two weeks to lodge an appeal.
That appeal was lodged just before the deadline expired on Monday evening.
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