The national police in Casablanca apprehended a 34-year-old French citizen on Friday pursuant to an international arrest warrant issued by the French judicial authorities.
Interpol had issued a red notice against the suspect for leading several criminal networks operating in international drug trafficking and money laundering, the National Police (DGSN) said in a press release.
The suspect was remanded into police custody and brought before the prosecutor’s office in Casablanca on Saturday, as part of the extradition procedure.
French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin hailed Moroccan authorities’ efforts in arresting the drug trafficker.
“One of the biggest Marseille drug traffickers was arrested in Morocco. Congratulations to the police who relentlessly pursue the fight against drug trafficking,” Darmanin wrote on X (formerly Twitter.)
“A major blow is struck today against narco-terrorism thanks to our cooperation with the Moroccan authorities, whom I thank,” he added.
Local media said that the arrested is Félix Bingui, nicknamed the Cat. He is allegedly the boss of the Yoda clan.
Born on December 14, 1990, in Alès (Gard), Bingui had fled to Morocco several months ago. He was also wanted for murder, settling scores between criminals, and death threats.