Algeria Incarcerates Key DZ Mafia Leaders, French Minister Lauds Judicial Cooperation

Algerian judicial authorities have taken a significant step in the fight against organized crime by provisionally incarcerating two key figures of the DZ Mafia. This action, which saw the detention of individuals identified as Mehdi Laribi, the presumed head of the criminal organization, and Djamel Djeha, was carried out in Algeria at the explicit request of the Algiers public prosecutor. French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin officially announced these incarcerations on Monday, highlighting the successful outcome of international efforts.

The two individuals, originating from Marseille, were apprehended in Algeria between late July and early August. Both Laribi and Djeha had been designated as "priority objectives" by French justice, underscoring the international significance of their detention. Mr. Darmanin publicly extended his gratitude to the Algerian judicial authorities, specifically acknowledging their ongoing exchanges and collaboration in this matter.

Djamel Djeha is further identified as a brother of Mohamed Djeha, known as "Mimo," who formerly managed a significant drug trafficking network in La Castellane, Marseille. These incarcerations represent a tangible result of the renewed judicial cooperation between France and Algeria. This strengthened collaboration was notably underscored by a visit made by Mr. Darmanin to Algiers just weeks prior to the arrests, signaling a proactive and coordinated approach to tackling transnational criminal networks.