Morocco extradited alleged Yoda gang leader to France

France has expressed its gratitude to Morocco for its role in the arrest and extradition of Félix Bingui, the alleged leader of the Yoda gang, which is implicated in the Marseille drug trade. French Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin conveyed his appreciation through his X account, stating, «I would like to offer my deep thanks to the Moroccan authorities who have initiated the extradition procedure, which will finally enable French justice to prosecute him».

Félix Bingui, also known as «Le Chat» and regarded as one of the most dangerous drug traffickers, is slated for deportation from Morocco to France, according to a source familiar with the case who spoke to AFP on January 20. Bingui, a 30-year-old, was apprehended in Casablanca on March 8, 2024. He is wanted for charges related to drug trafficking and association with a criminal gang. INTERPOL had issued a Red Notice for his arrest at the behest of a judge in Marseille.

The Yoda gang, which Bingui is suspected of leading, has been embroiled in violent clashes with the rival DZ Mafia. Prosecutors revealed on France Info in December that 70% of the murders or attempted murders linked to organized gangs in Marseille in 2023 were connected to this ongoing conflict.