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 other criminal activities, besides drug trafficking, is the DZ Mafia involved in, according to Prosecutor Bessone?
## Marseille Cracks Down: A Conversation with Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone
**Interviewer:** Prosecutor Bessone, thank you for joining us today. Marseille has been grappling with a surge in violence linked to drug trafficking, specifically involving the DZ Mafia. Can you tell us about the recent operation and its impact on the gang?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Absolutely. We’ve been diligently working to dismantle the DZ Mafia, which has grown increasingly brazen and violent. Since October 1st, a coordinated effort by our law enforcement agencies resulted in over 100 arrests and more than 100 indictments. This is a significant blow to their operations and hopefully a turning point in our fight against them. [[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)]
**Interviewer:** The news reports mention DZ Mafia is involved in more than just drug trafficking. Can you elaborate on the gang’s expanding criminal activities?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Precisely. We’ve seen a disturbing trend of diversification in their criminal portfolio. Recently, they were linked to the attack on a vehicle meant for the rapper SCH, tragically resulting in the death of one of his companions. Additionally, there is strong evidence suggesting they’ve been extorting local businesses, including nightclubs and restaurants in Marseille. This only underscores the urgent need to neutralize their influence.
**Interviewer:** What message are you sending to the public with these arrests?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** We want the citizens of Marseille to know that we are committed to restoring peace and security to our city. We will not tolerate this level of violence and criminal activity. These arrests are a clear demonstration of our resolve and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement officers.