Amine Kessaci, a 22-year-old anti-drugs advocate from France, has vowed to continue speaking out against drug-related violence following the murder of his younger brother, Mehdi, last week. This incident marks a tragic continuation of violence in his family, as his elder brother, Brahim, was also killed in 2020. Writing in Le Monde, Amine emphasized the need to confront drug traffickers and highlighted their efforts to instill fear and suppress resistance.
Mehdi Kessaci, just 20 years old, was shot dead in Marseille, an act described by French officials as a crime of intimidation connected to gang activities. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez characterized the murder as unprecedented in its brutality, aligning it with the escalating violence associated with France’s drug trafficking issues.
In response to the murder, government officials are reevaluating their approach to drug crimes. President Emmanuel Macron recently convened a summit to address the rise in drug-related violence, acknowledging that the situation in Marseille, known for its drug traffic, has become increasingly critical. Current estimates suggest that the drug trade in France generates approximately €7 billion annually and engages a substantial segment of the population in illicit activities.
Despite police warnings and threats against his life, Amine attended his brother’s funeral under heavy police protection, wearing a bulletproof vest. He urged citizens and the government to take decisive action against drug-related violence. Recent data presented by officials indicate a slight decrease in drug-related homicides in Marseille, but many consider the situation far from resolved.
Experts have pointed out that France’s geographical location makes it a significant hub in the European drug trade, contributing to a complex and challenging landscape for law enforcement. There are discussions among politicians about potentially deploying military resources to combat the escalating influence of drugs gangs, with some likening the current situation to acts of terrorism.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz6n6j0d3xpo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss