The Mamertines became a growing threat to Carthage and Syracuse alike. In 265 BC, Hiero II, former general of Pyrrhus and the new tyrant of Syracuse, took action against them.
As the Mamertines' power grew, they became a menace to both Carthage and Syracuse. In 265 BC, Hiero II, a seasoned military commander and newly appointed tyrant of Syracuse, responded by taking action against them.