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 potential consequences for Marseille residents if the DZ Mafia is not fully dismantled?
## Marseille Cracks Down on DZ Mafia: An Interview
**Host:** Joining us today is investigative journalist, Sophie Dubois, who has been closely following the recent crackdown on the DZ Mafia in Marseille. Sophie, thanks for being here.
**Sophie Dubois:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** Let’s start with the big picture. Over 100 arrests have been made since October. What does this operation tell us about the scale of the DZ Mafia’s operations in Marseille?
**Sophie Dubois:** This is definitely a major victory for Marseille authorities. The sheer number of arrests indicates the size and influence the DZ Mafia had within the city. [[1](https://www.lemonde.fr/societe/article/2024/12/08/dz-mafia-a-marseille-deux-affaires-illustrent-la-diversification-des-narcotrafiquants-dans-l-extorsion-de-fonds_6436633_3224.html)] For years, they’ve been a dominant force in the drug trade, but as Marseille Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone highlighted, their reach extends far beyond that.
**Host:** You mentioned diversification. Can you elaborate on that?
**Sophie Dubois:** Absolutely.
The DZ Mafia is branching out into more traditional criminal activities. Bessone pointed to two recent cases: an attack on a vehicle belonging to rapper SCH, resulting in the death of one of his companions, and several witness testimonies alleging the extortion of a local businessman who owns a nightclub, restaurant, and several other businesses. This suggests the DZ Mafia is becoming more like an organized crime syndicate with interests in a multitude of illegal activities.
**Host:** What does this shift towards extortion and violence mean for the people of Marseille?
**Sophie Dubois:** It means the DZ Mafia poses an even greater threat to the safety and well-being of Marseille residents. This organization is clearly becoming more brazen and willing to use violence to achieve its goals. This crackdown is crucial to dismantling their network and protecting the city from their influence.
**Host:** What are the next steps in this operation?
**Sophie Dubois:** The investigations are ongoing, and authorities are likely pursuing leads connected to the arrests made. It’s essential to dismantle the entire network and bring all those responsible to justice.
**Host:** Thank you, Sophie Dubois, for shedding light on this developing story.
**Sophie Dubois:** You’re welcome.
