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France Labels Narco Threat ‘At Least Equivalent to Terrorism’ After Marseille Killing

During a visit to Marseille, ministers described the shooting as an intimidation strike on the state, detailing extradition requests to the UAE and added judicial resources.

Overview

  • Interior and Justice ministers Laurent Nuñez and Gérald Darmanin visited Marseille, meeting magistrates, investigators and the Kessaci family one week after Mehdi Kessaci was shot dead.
  • They said the killing constitutes a crime of intimidation aimed at the Republic, with Darmanin calling narcotrafficking a national threat at least equivalent to terrorism.
  • Darmanin said he has requested the extradition of about fifteen alleged traffickers from the United Arab Emirates and cited criminal networks generating billions in cash.
  • Officials pledged reinforcements for Marseille’s justice system, promised monthly ministerial returns, and announced specific anti-corruption measures as probes target suspected leaks within services.
  • The investigation into Mehdi Kessaci’s murder is ongoing with no arrests publicly reported, while a silent march is planned Saturday and Amine Kessaci remains under police protection calling for broad mobilisation.