"The goal is to make him fall": Defense paints drug suspect Félix Bingui as 'political prisoner' amid justice pressure

The defense lawyer for alleged drug lord Félix Bingui fears his client will be subjected to a politically motivated "execution" by the justice system, pressured by the government's anti-narcotics campaign.

During his closing arguments, lawyer Philippe Ohayon expressed shock at the 16-year prison sentence requested for Bingui, known as "Le Chat." Ohayon argued that such a severe penalty, especially in the context of a government prioritizing the fight against drug trafficking, aims to make an example of his client. The lawyer questioned the severity, asking if such a sentence was "serious" and if the justice system's message was to display traffickers' heads publicly.

“

Sixteen years? Is that really serious? To show their heads on a spike in the courthouse park! That's the fate reserved for all drug traffickers! That's the message from Justice!

Félix Bingui stands accused of leading a highly structured drug trafficking network in Marseille, particularly in the La Paternelle neighborhood. The prosecution alleges he operated with a clear hierarchy and division of roles. This alleged operation became entangled in a violent feud with a rival gang, the DZ Mafia, a conflict that has reportedly been particularly deadly and has intensified government scrutiny.

Bingui is on trial with 19 co-defendants, two of whom are subject to arrest warrants. They face charges including drug trafficking, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering, with recidivism being a factor. The defense contends that the prosecution's demands are excessive and driven by political pressure rather than purely legal considerations.

“

The goal is to make him fall.