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 specific actions have been taken by Marseille authorities against the DZ Mafia since October 1st, and what are the tangible outcomes of these actions?
## Marseille Cracks Down on DZ Mafia: An Interview with Prosecutor Nicolas Bessone
**Interviewer:** Prosecutor Bessone, thank you for joining us today. Marseille has seen over 100 arrests in recent months, attributed to a crackdown on the infamous drug trafficking gang, the DZ Mafia. Can you elaborate on this operation and its significance?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Absolutely. Since October 1st, we have undertaken a massive investigation targeting the DZ Mafia. The results speak for themselves – over 100 arrests and more than 100 indictments issued. This is a significant blow to their operation, dismantling their network and disrupting their illegal activities.
**Interviewer:** It seems theDZ Mafia’s influence extends far beyond drug trafficking. You mentioned cases involving a rapper and a local businessman. Could you expand on that?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** Exactly. The DZ Mafia is no longer solely focused on drugs. We’ve uncovered their involvement in violent crimes like the attack on rapper SCH’s vehicle, which tragically resulted in the death of one of his companions [[1](https://www.lefigaro.fr/marseille/marseille-qui-se-cache-derriere-la-dz-mafia-et-yoda-ces-gangs-auteurs-de-sanglants-reglements-de-compte-20240128)]. They are also allegedly involved in extorting local businesses. We have received credible witness testimonies pointing to their intimidation tactics against the owner of a nightclub, restaurant, and several other establishments in Marseille.
**Interviewer:** These cases paint a disturbing picture of the reach and brutality of the DZ Mafia. What message are you sending through these recent arrests?
**Prosecutor Bessone:** This operation sends a clear message: Marseille will not tolerate organized crime. We are committed to protecting our citizens and bringing these criminals to justice. These arrests, while significant, are just the beginning of our efforts to dismantle theDZ Mafia completely. We will continue to investigate their activities, pursue their members, and ensure they face the full force of the law.
