Alleged DZ Mafia leader arrested in Algeria over Marseille drug crime network
Algerian authorities have arrested an alleged leader of the ‘DZ Mafia,’ an organized crime syndicate linked to a wave of drug violence in France. Mehdi Laribi, a French-Algerian national, was arrested in Algeria in late July under an arrest warrant issued by investigating magistrates from the Marseille Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The Marseille Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed to OCCRP that Laribi “was detained by Algerian authorities on July 20” and placed under judicial supervision by the Algerian justice system the following day.
“This action was taken pursuant to an arrest warrant issued by investigating magistrates in connection with the "Octopus” operation handled by the Marseille courts—which concerns the structure of the ‘DZ Mafia’.”
French prosecutors accuse the DZ Mafia of operating a widespread criminal network involved in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and contract killings. Named after Algeria’s alpha-2 country code (DZ) in reference to its founders’ origins, the group originated in Marseille’s housing projects before expanding into several other French cities.
In early March, the sweeping police operation dubbed "Octopus" led to the arrest of 43 individuals suspected of playing significant roles within the DZ Mafia. During the raids, authorities seized assets valued at more than 4 million euros (about $4.6 million).
As an Algerian citizen, Laribi cannot be extradited to France under existing bilateral agreements, though he could still face prosecution within Algeria. When asked about potential extradition or judicial proceedings, the Marseille prosecutor’s office said that “the next steps are currently under review.”
Algerian authorities could not be reached for comment, nor Laribi, who remains presumed innocent.
The DZ Mafia made headlines recently in July following threats against a local mayor and an arson attack on a social media influencer’s vehicle in Marseille. Masked men claiming to be members of the DZ Mafia later released a video denying any involvement in the threats against the elected official.
In March, six suspected DZ Mafia members stood trial in France, two of whom prosecutors identified as current leaders of the group. A month later, the court handed down an initial ruling, acquitting one of the six defendants and sentenced the remaining five to prison sentences of 15 or 25 years.
Deputy Editor
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