French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin visits Algeria to discuss renewed cooperation on criminal justice, including efforts to address organized crime linked to the alleged DZ Mafia network. According to reports from France 24 and RFI, Darmanin is in Algiers for talks with his Algerian counterpart, Lotfi Boudjemaa, focused on opening a “new chapter” in judicial cooperation and enlisting Algeria’s assistance in France’s fight against crime. France 24 also frames the discussions around questions about DZ Mafia leaders allegedly directing drug trafficking and related violence from Algeria.
Le Monde reports that the cooperation has been stalled for nearly two years and that Darmanin discusses organized crime during meetings with Boudjemaa, with specific reference to the DZ Mafia case. Le Monde also adds that the discussions extend beyond the criminal file to the detention of French journalist Christophe Gleizes in Algeria. RFI similarly reports that the potential release of Gleizes is part of the talks.
Le Monde further states that Darmanin meets or discusses with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, including the need to continue work to rebuild trust between the two countries.
