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.
What are the specific crimes, beyond drug trafficking, that the DZ Mafia has been linked to?
## Marseille Cracks Down on Deadly Drug Gang
**Host:** Joining us today to discuss the recent crackdown on Marseille’s infamous drug gang, the DZ Mafia, is investigative journalist, Claire Dubois. Claire, thanks for being here.
**Claire Dubois:** My pleasure.
**Host:** Marseille authorities have announced over 100 arrests as part of a major operation targeting the DZ Mafia. Can you tell us more about this operation and its significance?
**Claire Dubois:** Absolutely. This is a major victory for law enforcement in Marseille. This operation, which began in October, has dealt a serious blow to the DZ Mafia, a gang known for its brutal tactics and wide-reaching influence in the Marseille drug trade. Over 100 arrests have been made, and over 100 indictments issued, showcasing the scale of this operation. [[1](https://theweek.com/crime/inside-marseilles-deadly-drug-wars)]
**Host:** This seems to be more than just your typical drug bust, though. Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone mentioned the DZ Mafia’s involvement in crimes beyond drug trafficking. Can you elaborate on that?
**Claire Dubois:** That’s right. Bessone has highlighted the gang’s growing reach, linking them to two very high-profile cases recently. One involved an attack on a vehicle meant for popular rapper SCH, tragically resulting in the death of one of his companions. There are also allegations of extortion targeting a local nightclub and restaurant owner. This points to a disturbing trend of the DZ Mafia branching out into more conventional criminal activities.
**Host:** So it seems like authorities are facing a complex and evolving threat. What are the next steps in this fight against the DZ Mafia?
**Claire Dubois:** It’s a constant battle. While these arrests are a significant win, the DZ Mafia is a deeply entrenched organization with a strong network. Law enforcement will need to remain vigilant and continue to work on dismantling the gang’s infrastructure to truly cripple its operations.
**Host:** Claire Dubois, thank you for providing such insightful analysis on this situation.
