Marseille Police Crack Down on DZ Mafia Drug Gang, Over 100 Arrested

Marseille Drug Gang Crackdown Nets over 100 Arrests

Following a series of successful investigations, Marseille authorities have dealt a significant blow to the notorious drug trafficking gang, DZ Mafia. Since October 1st, a massive operation has resulted in over 100 arrests, with more than 100 indictments issued.

Broadening Criminal Network

During a press conference, Marseille Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone highlighted the increasing reach of the DZ Mafia, noting its involvement in crimes extending beyond traditional drug trafficking. Two recent high-profile cases have shed light on the gang’s expanding influence and its ties to more conventional criminal activities.

“These cases demonstrate the diversification of this criminal organization’s activities,” stated Bessone, referring to an attack targeting a vehicle meant for rapper SCH, in which one of the artist’s companions was killed, and witness testimonies pointing to extortion of the owner of a nightclub, restaurant, and several businesses in Marseille.

He added, "Members of the team who attacked the car Rapper SCH was in were the same individuals who threatened the owner of the nightclub. This shows a clear connection and demonstrates the group’s ability to project itself beyond its region of origin”

Of the 44 individuals indicted in these two cases, 31 were placed in pre-trial detention, and 13 are under judicial supervision.

Serious Threats Against Prison Officials

In a concerning development, the Marseille prosecutor’s office confirmed that a leader of the DZ Mafia already in custody was allegedly involved in recent death threats against the director of the Marseille Baumettes Prison and one of her deputies.

The two prison officials, temporarily relieved of their duties and placed under police protection, described by the Ministry of Justice as an “exceptionally serious” situation.

Friday evening, the Marseille prosecutor’s office announced the indictment and provisional incarceration of two men, aged 17 and 21, apprehended armed in the prison area in possible connection with this latest threat.

Deadly Toll Rises

The violence associated with the escalating drug turf wars in the Marseille region has claimed 23 lives since the beginning of the year. This follows a horrifying year in 2023, where drug-related violence resulted in 49 deaths in Marseille alone, marking a bloody record.

The incessant bloodshed reflects the brutal battle for territory between the DZ Mafia and another powerful drug trafficking gang known as Yoda. While the DZ Mafia appears to have emerged victorious from this gang warfare, the city remains gripped by fear and law enforcement continues its relentless crackdown on organized crime.

How has the DZ Mafia diversified its activities beyond drug⁢ trafficking?

⁣ ## Marseille Cracks Down: Interview with Crime Expert

**Host:** We’re joined today by ⁤Dr. Marie Dubois, a leading expert on organized crime in France. Dr. Dubois, Marseille authorities recently announced a ⁤major crackdown on ⁤the DZ Mafia, resulting ⁣in over 100 arrests. Can you tell us more about this operation and its significance?

**Dr. Dubois:**⁣ This is indeed a significant blow to ⁣the ⁣DZ Mafia. [1] Details are still emerging, but it seems authorities have been building cases against this ‌group for‍ some time, culminating in this large-scale sting operation. The fact that over 100 indictments have been ⁢issued ⁣highlights⁤ the ‌depth and reach of this gang’s criminal ⁣activity.

**Host:** It’s been ⁤reported that the⁢ DZ Mafia’s ⁤activities extend beyond just drug trafficking. What else have they been involved in?

**Dr. Dubois:** That’s right.⁢ While drug trafficking is ‍their traditional stronghold, authorities are now⁢ uncovering a much broader range of⁢ criminal​ activities.‍ The​ recent attack on rapper SCH’s entourage, which resulted in a fatality, and reports of‌ extortion targeting a ​prominent Marseille businessman ⁢are examples of this diversification. ⁤ [1] These indicate⁢ a willingness to branch into more traditional organized crime,⁢ like extortion and violence, to expand their power​ and influence.

**Host:** How ⁢concerning is this broadening of their criminal scope?

**Dr. Dubois:** Very concerning. The expansion into more​ conventional crimes ‍signifies a desire to tighten their grip on Marseille ‌and​ potentially beyond. Control​ over legitimate businesses through extortion, ​intimidating rivals through violence, these are ⁤tactics‍ we typically associate⁤ with larger, more entrenched organized crime syndicates.

**Host:**⁤ What impact do you think this crackdown will have on⁤ the DZ Mafia’s operations?

**Dr. Dubois:** It’s certainly a ​major setback, but the DZ Mafia⁣ is a resilient organization. They’ve likely been preparing for⁤ this moment by establishing backup networks and leadership structures. Whether this operation‍ truly cripples them in the long term remains ​to be seen. It will require sustained efforts from the authorities to truly disrupt their operations and dismantle their network.

**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Dubois, for your insights‍ on⁤ this important story.

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