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 alleged involvement in extortion and violence impacted the business community and social climate in Marseille?
## Marseille Cracks Down on Expanding Criminal Network: Interview with Prosecutor Bessone
**Host:** Thank you for joining us today, Prosecutor Bessone. Marseille authorities have made significant strides against the DZ Mafia, a notorious drug trafficking gang. Can you elaborate on the recent crackdown?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Certainly. This operation, initiated on October 1st, Targeted the DZ Mafia’s sprawling network, leading to over 100 arrests and more than 100 indictments. This is a substantial blow to their operations.
**Host:** Do you believe this operation has crippled their activities?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** We’ve dealt a serious blow, but the DZ Mafia is a resilient organization. We need to remain vigilant. Recent cases have revealed a disturbing trend – their activities are expanding beyond drug trafficking.
**Host:** Can you give us some examples?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** There was a targeted attack on a vehicle belonging to the rapper SCH, resulting in the tragic death of one of his companions. Witness testimony also suggests they were involved in extorting the owner of several businesses in Marseille, including a nightclub and restaurant. [[1](https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2024/10/20/the-dz-mafia-a-french-drug-enterprise-turned-criminal-brand-with-mafia-ambitions_6729907_7.html)]
**Host:** This diversification into more conventional criminal activities is worrisome.
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Absolutely. It highlights the evolving nature of organized crime and the need for law enforcement agencies to adapt and collaborate.
**Host:** What message do you want to send to the people of Marseille ?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** We are committed to dismantling criminal organizations like the DZ Mafia and ensuring the safety and security of our city. These arrests are a testament to that commitment.
**Host:** Thank you for your time, Prosecutor Bessone.
