Alleged DZ Mafia leader Mehdi Laribi arrested in Algeria under French warrant

Wednesday 05 August 2026 - 10:30

By: Sahili Aya

Alleged DZ Mafia leader Mehdi Laribi arrested in Algeria under French warrant

Algerian authorities have arrested Mehdi Laribi, a suspected senior figure in the criminal organization known as DZ Mafia, acting on the basis of a French arrest warrant, according to judicial sources.

Laribi, a Franco-Algerian from Marseille, was detained on 31 July in Algeria before being placed under judicial supervision while legal proceedings continue.

Arrest carried out under French warrant

Judicial sources said the arrest was executed in response to a warrant issued by French authorities, reflecting ongoing judicial cooperation between France and Algeria in the fight against organized crime.

Laribi has been presented by investigators as one of the alleged founders of DZ Mafia, a criminal network that has been associated with a series of violent incidents in Marseille in recent years.

Authorities have not released further details regarding the legal process or any potential extradition proceedings.

Focus on organized crime

French authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle organized criminal groups operating in Marseille, where violent rivalries linked to drug trafficking have fueled a rise in shootings and other serious offences.

The reported arrest of Laribi is part of broader law enforcement operations targeting individuals suspected of playing leadership roles within criminal organizations.

Investigation continues

The case remains under judicial review, and authorities have not announced any final legal decisions regarding Laribi's status.

As with any criminal proceedings, the allegations against the suspect will be examined through the judicial process before any determination of guilt is made.