A quarter of all Sicilian houses are built without permission. Many of these buildings disfigure national parks or archaeological zones and lack the infrastructure necessary to maintain basic sanitation. However the mafia are deeply involved in the building industry and local officials refuse to co-operate with central government. Mayors cannot support a policy which would demolish the homes of thousands of voters and anyone who tries encounters threats or bribes. However, after years of fighting, a handful of protesters are starting to see results. Last year a former mayor with mafia connections was arrested and construction in the region was halted. The foundations of mafia control in Sicily are starting to look shaky.

Produced by ABC Australia