Algeria arrests two suspected traffickers for France

Algerian authorities arrested Rachid Djeha, a Marseille trafficker considered one of the godfathers of the Castellane network, in early August 2026.6,5 Rachid Djeha is presented as one of the presumed heads of the Castellane network, one of the most profitable in Marseille with two points of deals.5 On 20 July 2026, Mehdi Laribi, alleged founder of the DZ Mafia, was arrested in Algeria and placed under judicial supervision.4,2,1

Mehdi Laribi was a priority target of French justice, according to French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin.1 An arrest warrant issued by France was executed by Algeria at the end of July 2026 as part of the "Octopus" operation, targeting the largest drug traffickers operating in France from abroad.4,2 The arrest of Mehdi Laribi was made public on 5 August 2026 by the French authorities.2

Mehdi Laribi, 36, is described as one of the most powerful drug traffickers in France, having risen through the ranks of organized crime at a very young age.3 Diplomatic relations between France and Algeria were discussed in the context of these arrests, according to RFI.2 The Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin confirmed the arrest of Rachid Djeha via RTL information.6

Operation “Octopus” was launched to track down traffickers operating from abroad and weaken networks like the DZ Mafia.4,2