A 19-year-old man was fatally shot at a drug deal point in Marseille, in what appears to be the third drug-related homicide of the year. The young man, originally from Algeria, was shot in the head at a drug selling point in the Belle-de-Mai district and later died at the hospital. Although he was not known to the justice system, he was listed by the police for drug-related offenses. The investigation found eight cartridges from a 7.65 caliber handgun at the scene, and a vehicle believed to be used by the armed group was found burned in a nearby town. This incident highlights the ongoing violence between rival gangs in Marseille, particularly the “Yoda” and “DZ Mafia” clans, fighting for control of the drug trade in the city.
In 2023, forty-nine people have been killed in drug-related violence in Marseille, with ongoing conflicts between rival gangs causing casualties. Among the victims are collateral damage, including three women who were shot last year. However, the rate of these murders has slowed down since November, with a significant decrease compared to previous years. This violence reflects the ongoing battle for drug trafficking control in the city, with various criminal organizations vying for power and territory. The situation remains tense and dangerous, with innocent bystanders often getting caught in the crossfire.
The Belle-de-Mai district, known for being one of the poorest areas in Europe, has been particularly affected by drug-related criminal activities. Two drug-related homicides occurred in this central part of Marseille in 2023, following five incidents in 2022. To combat this illicit trade, the government launched large-scale operations across France to crackdown on drug trafficking. These efforts, supported by an increased police presence, aim to disrupt and dismantle drug networks operating in the country. President Emmanuel Macron visited Marseille to support these initiatives and highlight the importance of tackling drug-related crime.
The government’s crackdown on drug trafficking has resulted in numerous arrests and prosecutions, with a significant number of individuals detained for their involvement in illegal activities. These operations have led to a total of 186 arrest warrants nationwide, with around fifty arrests specifically in Marseille. Recent law enforcement actions in the city have resulted in multiple indictments and detentions, targeting individuals involved in drug trafficking networks. The authorities continue to intensify efforts to combat drug-related violence and criminal activities, aiming to improve public safety and security in Marseille and across the country.
