Bruno Antonio Malatesta, a self-styled yoga guru and spiritual leader, was arrested last Thursday in Almese, a town near Turin, on charges related to the operation of an alleged sect involving the enslavement and abuse of women. The 59-year-old, who publicly portrayed himself as a master of the Shaivist Hindu tradition, is accused of subjecting members of his community to physical, psychological, and sexual abuse.

Prosecutors allege that Malatesta recruited dozens of women and girls, some reportedly as young as 16, through courses in yoga, meditation, and martial arts. Once integrated into the community, which was housed in a cluster of villas, the women—referred to by Malatesta as “nuns” or “handmaids”—were required to adhere to strict rules of obedience. Investigators say the women were forced to work long hours on agricultural land and faced punitive measures such as beatings or being made to sleep on the floor if they violated community rules.

Malatesta reportedly portrayed sexual relations with female members as a form of ritual purification, sometimes performed in exchange for payment, according to the prosecution. Authorities believe financial motives were involved, as followers were required to surrender personal possessions while also paying fees for accommodation, meals, therapy sessions, and ritual items including salts, crystals, and incense.

Following Malatesta’s arrest, 20 women residing at the community were relocated to safe houses, state broadcaster Rai reported. The investigation was initially opened in 2018 after complaints from the former husband of an alleged victim but was suspended in 2023. Renewed allegations prompted a reopening of the inquiry in 2025, culminating in last week’s arrest.

In addition to the abuse allegations, Malatesta faces charges of fraud. Prosecutors assert that he claimed disability benefits by falsely presenting himself as having difficulty walking. Malatesta has not issued any public comments regarding the accusations. The case remains under active investigation.