This Friday, a resounding sweep took place in the Var, where twenty-three individuals, including five teenagers, have been indicted for their alleged links to the Mafia DZ. This operation aims to counter the expansion of this Marseille-based criminal group, which is attempting to establish itself outside its traditional stronghold. The charges relate to various criminal acts connected to drug trafficking, a situation that raises concerns about the evolution of crime in this region.
A decisive sweep in the Var
On Friday, October 18, twenty-three individuals, including five teenagers, were indicted in Toulon for their alleged ties to the Mafia DZ, a drug trafficking clan from Marseille. This operation is part of a series of actions taken by law enforcement to counter the expansion of this criminal group in the Var, where it was attempting to extend its drug trafficking network.
The takeover of drug dealing spots
The Mafia DZ had expressed its intention to establish itself more firmly in the region, particularly in localities such as La-Seyne-sur-Mer and Hyères. The Toulon prosecutor, Samuel Finielz, stated that this sweep follows the identification of several networks aiming to control drug dealing spots within these municipalities. These actions demonstrate the criminals’ desire to expand well beyond their historical bases in Marseille.
Disconcerting criminal acts
Among the cases mentioned, one of the most striking dates back to January 28, 2024, when four individuals broke into the home of a couple in La Seyne-sur-Mer. This violent intrusion aimed to steal cash concealed in safes. According to investigations, this assault was allegedly orchestrated from prison by an inmate identified as an influential member of the Mafia DZ.
Rising tensions in the Var
Another case has also been reported, highlighting an attempt to take control of a drug dealing spot in Hyères. On the night of January 20 to 21, individuals claiming to act on behalf of the Mafia DZ opened fire before fleeing. Witnesses indicate that these criminal actions were also directed from prison, underscoring the reach and organization of the clan.
Long-term investigations
The indictment of the twenty-three individuals required several months of investigative work. Prosecutor Finielz specified that more than ten investigators from the specialized organized crime division were mobilized, in collaboration with two examining magistrates. The scale of these operations reflects the authorities’ determination to counter the rise of this expanding criminal phenomenon.
A call for collective vigilance
These events underscore the importance of increased vigilance within communities affected by drug trafficking. The presence of five minors among the indicted individuals also raises questions about youth involvement in criminal activities. The results of these investigations should serve as a wake-up call for all citizens to become aware of the dangers posed by organizations like the Mafia DZ.
- Total number of individuals: 23
- Number of teenagers: 5
- Date of indictment: October 18
- Location: Var
- Origin of the criminal group: Marseille
- Number of individuals in provisional detention: 19
- Area of influence: La Seyne-sur-Mer, Hyères
- Nature of criminal activities: Drug trafficking
- Instigators of the acts: Incarcerated member of the Mafia DZ
- Cases handled: Thefts, takeover of drug dealing spots
