lemonde.fr
Marseille: Extortion Soars Amidst Rise of Drug Trafficking Groups
In Marseille, the rise of criminal groups like the DZ Mafia has led to a significant increase in extortion, impacting businesses and creating a climate of fear. This is linked to the unprecedented growth in drug trafficking, with groups using intimidation tactics and subcontracting to minors to control territory and maximize profits.
- What is the profile of individuals responsible for threatening and extorting local businesses?
- \"The use of extortion by drug trafficking groups in Marseille is a systemic issue stemming from the expansion of drug trade and the competition for territorial control. \"This has resulted in a significant increase in violent crime, with the criminal groups using intimidation tactics such as threats, physical violence and property damage to exert control and extract money from local businesses. \"The involvement of minors in these activities, often hired as subcontractors for extortion, represents a concerning trend that underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing the issue.\"
- What is the extent of extortion used by criminal groups involved in drug trafficking in Marseille?
- \"The rise of criminal groups like the DZ Mafia in Marseille has led to a significant increase in extortion, impacting businesses and creating a climate of fear.\" \"Extortion, though difficult to quantify precisely, is a direct consequence of the unprecedented growth in drug trafficking, driven by the groups' efforts to control territory and maximize profits.\" \"This criminal activity extends beyond the previously limited scope of the rap music scene, now affecting various sectors, including bars, nightclubs and shops, resulting in a surge in legal proceedings.\"
- What are the systemic impacts of this surge in extortion and how can the judicial system adapt to address the growing threat?
- \"The increasing involvement of minors in extortion, often from distant regions, reveals the widespread nature of the problem and indicates a lack of awareness regarding the consequences. \"The high number of individuals involved in drug-related offenses, as demonstrated by the high percentage of inmates in certain prisons linked to drug trafficking, necessitates a reassessment of the judicial system's organization. \"The pervasive nature of extortion highlights the need for broader societal intervention, going beyond the scope of law enforcement alone, encompassing educational initiatives and community engagement to combat this criminal behavior.\"
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the severity and widespread nature of the problem, highlighting the "toxic" nature of the money and the "terror" tactics used. While factual, this framing could potentially increase public fear and anxiety.
Language Bias
The language used is strong but generally reflects the seriousness of the situation. Terms like "toxic", "terror", and "inquiétant" (worrying) are used, but these are arguably appropriate given the context. However, alternatives could be used to convey the gravity without being as emotionally charged.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the criminal activities and their impact, but lacks perspectives from victims of extortion, law enforcement strategies beyond judicial response, or potential socio-economic factors contributing to the rise of these criminal groups. The absence of these perspectives limits a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the negative impact of criminal groups