Mayor of Alès Refuses to Yield After Receiving Death Threats from Alleged Criminal Group

Alès, a city of 46,000, is reeling from an unprecedented event: its mayor, Christophe Rivenq, received death threats in the mail, including two 9mm bullets. The letter was allegedly signed by the criminal group DZ Mafia, whose influence in the Gard region is known to judicial police.

While the direct involvement of the criminal organization in this intimidation attempt remains to be proven, the incident marks a dangerous escalation. Criminals have not previously dared to directly target an elected official for their stance against drug trafficking. This threat comes at a sensitive time, with municipal elections approaching in southern France where drug trafficking is a daily concern.

Mayor Rivenq stated he did not expect to experience such a situation and would have preferred to avoid it, as the episode affects him. Despite the threats, he has declared he will not yield and has garnered support from a significant portion of the political class. The incident has sent shockwaves through the city, highlighting the growing boldness of criminal organizations.

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I did not expect to experience this at all and I would have gladly done without it, since this episode affects...