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’s diversification into more conventional crimes impacted the local community and what measures are being taken to address these new challenges?
## Marseille Cracking Down on DZ Mafia: An Interview
**Host:** We are joined today by Marseille Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone to discuss the recent crackdown on the notorious DZ Mafia. Prosecutor Bessone, welcome to the show.
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Over 100 arrests have been made and numerous indictments issued since October. Could you walk us through the scale of this operation and what it signifies for Marseille?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** This operation represents a significant victory in our fight against organized crime here in Marseille. The DZ Mafia has long been a thorn in our side, responsible for drug trafficking that fuels violence and fear within our city. These arrests not only dismantle their core operations but also send a clear message: we will not tolerate criminal activity in our midst. [[1](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4glwdx3p22o)]
**Host:** You also mentioned that the DZ Mafia’s activities are expanding beyond drug trafficking. Can you elaborate on that?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** We are seeing a worrying trend of diversification in their criminal enterprise. The recent cases involving the attack on rapper SCH’s entourage and the extortion of a local business owner illustrate this perfectly. It shows they are no longer content with just drugs. They are branching out into more conventional crimes, posing a broader threat to our community.
**Host:** What are the next steps in this ongoing battle against the DZ Mafia?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** This operation is just the beginning. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved, dismantle their network, and bring them to justice. We are also working closely with other law enforcement agencies and community organizations to prevent future recruitment and empower citizens to resist the lure of organized crime.
**Host:** Prosecutor Bessone, thank you for your time and for sharing your insights on this crucial issue.
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Thank you.
