Italy's Supreme Court Revives Berlusconi Bribery Controversy

Italy's supreme court has overturned the acquittal of 23 people accused of accepting bribes from the late prime minister Silvio Berlusconi. The case, linked to underage prostitution allegations, involves re-examination due to supreme court's rejection of a prior ruling. High-profile figures face renewed legal scrutiny.

Italy's supreme court has reignited a major legal battle by overturning the acquittal of 23 individuals accused of accepting bribes from the late former prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, in connection with an underage prostitution case that has haunted his legacy.

Earlier this year, a Milan court acquitted Berlusconi and the defendants, leveraging alleged procedural errors as the basis for its decision. The defendants, many of whom participated in Berlusconi's infamous 'Bunga Bunga' parties, now face an appeal trial as the supreme court rejected the acquittal.

The decision comes despite intertwined charges of false testimony being nullified by the statute of limitations. Among those returning to court is Karima El Mahroug, known as 'Ruby the Heart Stealer,' whose involvement in the alleged bribe scheme remains under scrutiny.

(With inputs from agencies.)