The task force, which is set to meet for the first time next week, will include Interior Ministry politicians, finance police and administrators from various sporting governing bodies.
"We have analysed what has taken place in the last few days in football betting and we have tried to work out ways of preventing it occurring again," Maroni told reporters on Friday.
"We have therefore decided to create an investigative unit with the purpose of collecting information and assessing any signs of foul play emanating from bookmakers and others," said Maroni who suggested a similar body be formed at European level.
"We can't rule out the hand of organised crime behind the illegal activities. I believe this to be an appropriate reaction by the world of sport and government to what has taken place."
Last week, Cremona's flying squad headed a nationwide police swoop that resulted in the arrest of 16 people, including former Italy and Lazio striker Giuseppe Signori, accused of belonging to a betting ring after a six-month probe termed 'last bet'.
Another 28, including Atalanta captain Cristiano Doni, were under investigation with allegations centring on 18 games from Serie B and Italy's lower divisions.
Abete, who launched a sporting judicial inquiry into betting allegations involving Atalanta and Siena, who have just been promoted to Serie A, welcomed the minister's intervention.
"It is an immediate response to a worldwide phenomenon," he said. "From the recent dark days, a new institutional element could emerge as a result."
"It's a difficult time for sport. We can't deny it," he said. "Betting goes beyond sport but today knowing that the Ministry of the Interior is with us gives some relief. We feel responsible and will offer all the help we can."
