The 7 May kneecapping of a top Italian nuclear power executive appears to herald the return of the Red Brigades (Italian abbr: BR), which terrorized Italy in the 1970s and 80s.  The attack is especially disturbing in light of the severe economic problems that have fostered growing anti-capitalist sentiment across southern Europe, opening the door to a revival of ultra-leftist terrorism.

A gunman riding pillion on a motorcycle shot Roberto Andolfini, the CEO of Ansaldo Nucleare, as he emerged from his Genoa home at 0830, fracturing his right knee.  It is significant that an Ansaldo executive was among the early victims of a BR kneecapping in the 1970s.

BR was largely dismantled in the 1990s, but remnants continue to surface.  Its resilience may be attributable to the fact that aging militants released from prison continue to tout Marxism and murder, and to attract young followers.

Prominent executives from companies engaged in controversial industries, such as nuclear energy, should buttress their security, varying their patterns and keep a sharp eye out for surveillances.  Especially high-profile individuals may require protective teams.