Threats against Alès mayor deemed 'particularly serious attacks on democratic institutions'

The national anti-organized crime prosecutor's office has taken charge of the investigation into death threats received by the mayor of Alès, Christophe Rivenq, which are attributed to the group known as "DZ Mafia." The perpetrators are actively being sought.

Nearly a week after a threatening letter signed by "DZNG" was discovered at Rivenq's home, the case has gained national attention. French institutions have shown solidarity with Rivenq, with the Minister of the Interior confirming that the mayor was targeted by "acts of intimidation." The national prosecutor for organized crime stated that these actions represent a dangerous precedent.

"Threats, intimidation, or violence targeting elected officials of the Republic constitute particularly serious attacks on democratic functioning," said the national prosecutor for organized crime, Vanessa Perrée, in a statement. "The acts committed against the mayor of Alès, who is engaged in the fight against drug trafficking affecting his territory, call for a determined judicial response in conjunction with the investigating services. Investigations are continuing to identify the perpetrators and ensure a criminal response commensurate with the seriousness of the acts," she added, mentioning the possible involvement of "organized criminal groups."

The national anti-organized crime prosecutor's office confirmed on Tuesday that it had taken over "all threats" made against the mayor. Investigations have been opened for "threat, violence, or act of intimidation against a public official to compel them to perform or refrain from performing an act of their mandate," "death threat or threat of damage dangerous to persons against a public official," and "participation in a criminal association for the purpose of preparing a crime aggravated by organized group commission." The national directorate of judicial police, the central office for combating organized crime, and zonal directorates of national police have been assigned the highly sensitive case. In addition to the threatening letter, two 9mm bullets were found inside it, and threatening graffiti was discovered on the walls of his property.