Marseille Grapples With Surge in Drug-Related Violence
Since October of this year, a crackdown on the Marseille drug trafficking organization known as DZ Mafia has resulted in 119 arrests. Authorities say the investigation revealed a diversification of the organization’s activities, extending beyond drug trafficking to include traditional banditry. More than 100 individuals have been indicted as a result of the operation.
During a recent press conference, Marseille’s public prosecutor, Nicolas Bessone, highlighted two particularly illustrative cases linked to the DZ Mafia. These cases involved a shooting targeting a car believed to carry rapper SCH, which in the end resulted in the death of one of SCH’s associates. This incident occurred on August 26 outside a night club in La Grande-Motte. The investigation revealed a connection to an extortion scheme targeting the owner of a nightclub, restaurant, and several businesses in Marseille, demonstrating the organization’s growing influence.
“Common sponsors" were identified in connection with these two incidents. “This demonstrates the relentless expansion of this criminal. It shows the group’s venture out of its traditional sphere,” said Bessone. “Forensic investigations revealed members involved in the attack on the vehicle which was intended to carry SCH were the same individuals who threatened the owner of the night establishment,” the prosecutor added, emphasizing the group’s blatant disregard for the law and its ability to permeate different areas.
Of the arrests, forty-four individuals were indicted. Thirty-one individuals were placed in pre-trial detention and thirteen remain under judicial supervision.
Among the individuals indicted is a senior member of the DZ Mafia. He is suspected of issuing threats against the director and deputy director of Marseille’s Baumettes prison.
These individuals found themselves in a “CONTRACT” situation that necessitated their temporary removal from their respective positions and placement under protection. On Friday evening, two men, aged 17 and 21, were apprehended while armed within the prison complex, further highlighting the expanded reach and temerity of this organization.
The alarming escalation of violence attributed to the DZ Mafia has resulted in twenty-three deaths since January, according to Agence France-Presse. This follows a 2023 that saw 49 fatalities directly related to drug trafficking.
The violence primarily stems from a brutal turf war between the DZ Mafia and another powerful drug trafficking organization known as Yoda. Although the DV Mafia ultimately gained the upper hand in their brutal struggle for control
This ongoing situation underscores the complexities of this criminal landscape and the challenges authorities face. The fight against this incidence of violence requires collaborative efforts, sophisticated investigative techniques, and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of Marseille’s residents.
What strategies are authorities employing to dismantle the DZ Mafia’s network and disrupt its operations in Marseille?
## Marseille Grapples With Surge in Drug-Related Violence: A Conversation with [Alex Reed Name], Crime Expert
**Host:** Welcome to the program. Today we’re discussing the alarming rise in drug-related violence in Marseille, France
, spurred by a powerful criminal organization known as the DZ Mafia. Joining me is [Alex Reed name], a leading expert on organized crime. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for being here.
**Alex Reed:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Marseille has seen a dramatic increase in shootings this year, with authorities linking much of this violence to the DZ Mafia. Can you shed some light on who this group is and what they’re involved in?
**Alex Reed:** The DZ Mafia is a well-established drug trafficking organization operating primarily in Marseille. However, as recent crackdowns have revealed, their activities are expanding far beyond traditional drug dealing.
**Host:** Authorities say they’re now involved in what they’re calling “traditional banditry.” What does that mean?
**Alex Reed:** Essentially, it means they’re branching out into other criminal enterprises like extortion, violence, and intimidation. This latest operation uncovered a case where they targeted a local businessman, attempting to extort him for significant sums. This demonstrates their growing power and influence, reaching beyond the drug trade. [[1](https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2023/08/18/marseille-s-increasingly-deadly-war-between-dz-mafia-and-yoda-two-drug-trafficking-networks_6097326_7.html)]
**Host:** We also understand there was a recent shooting connected to the DZ Mafia that involved a popular rapper, SCH. Can you tell us more about that?
**Alex Reed:** Yes, on August 26, a shooting occurred outside a nightclub in La Grande-Motte targeting a car believed to be carrying rapper SCH. Tragically, one of SCH’s associates was killed in the incident. While the full details are still emerging, investigators have linked this shooting to the same extortion scheme targeting the Marseille businessman.
**Host:** This certainly paints a chilling picture of the reach and audacity of the DZ Mafia. What are authorities doing to combat this growing threat?
**Alex Reed:** The recent crackdown, involving over 100 arrests and many indictments, is a significant step.
Authorities are working to dismantle the organization’s network, disrupt their activities, and bring those responsible to justice. However, it’s a complex and ongoing challenge.
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, [Alex Reed Name]. This is certainly a situation that demands continued attention and action.
