Christophe Rivenq, the mayor of Alès (LR), received two 9mm bullets in an envelope signed by the criminal gang "DZ Mafia" [1], [2].
The incident signals an escalation in gang-related conflicts within the Gard department, targeting a high-ranking government official at his private residence [1], [2].
The delivery occurred July 16, 2024 [3], at Rivenq's home in Alès, Gard [4]. Along with the envelope containing the two bullets [1], investigators found threatening inscriptions written on the walls of the property [1], [2].
Local authorities responded to the threat by deploying a company of the CRS, the national police reserve force [1]. The deployment aims to secure the area and protect the mayor following the direct intimidation attempt [1].
"Je ne me laisserai pas intimider," Rivenq said [1].
French security forces are investigating the delivery as part of a broader effort to combat the influence of the DZ Mafia. This criminal organization has been linked to various violent conflicts and territorial disputes across the region [1], [2].
Authorities have not yet identified the specific individuals responsible for the delivery of the ammunition. The investigation remains active as police analyze the evidence found at the scene [1], [2].
“"Je ne me laisserai pas intimider."”
The targeting of a municipal leader by the DZ Mafia indicates that criminal organizations in the Gard region are moving beyond street-level turf wars to challenge state authority. By attempting to intimidate the mayor of Alès, the gang is testing the security apparatus of the local government, which may lead to increased militarized policing and a more aggressive judicial crackdown on organized crime in southern France.
