Félix Bingui, Suspected Leader of the “Yoda” Clan, Arrested and Charged in Narcobanditry Case

Félix Bingui, alleged leader of the Yoda clan involved in drug trafficking, was arrested and faces multiple serious charges, including narcotics importation and money laundering, potentially leading to a 10-year prison sentence. After a violent conflict in Morocco with a rival gang, he was extradited to France. Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin labeled him a major trafficker, prompting concerns from Bingui’s lawyer about judicial independence and the presumption of innocence. Violence in Marseille’s drug trade has claimed numerous lives.

Félix Bingui, the Alleged Yoda Clan Leader, Faces Serious Charges

‘Le Chat’ is currently behind bars. Félix Bingui, believed to be the head of the Yoda clan, a prominent network involved in drug trafficking, was charged and placed in provisional detention on Friday, January 24, in Marseille, according to statements from the prosecutor’s office and his attorney. He faces severe allegations, including importing narcotics as part of an organized group, drug trafficking, aggravated money laundering, lack of resource justification, and conspiracy related to criminal activities, all of which carry potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison. This information was detailed in a statement by Marseille’s prosecutor, Nicolas Bessone. His lawyer, Me Philippe Ohayon, noted that Bingui has been placed in isolation.

Félix Bingui’s Drug Trafficking History and Arrest

At just 34 years old, Félix Bingui has dedicated his life to drug trafficking in Marseille. He frequently traveled to Morocco until February 2023 when a violent conflict erupted with the competing DZ Mafia gang, leading him to stay away from the North African nation. Ultimately, he was apprehended in Morocco on March 8, 2024. Following a hearing at the Court of Cassation in Rabat, he consented to extradition and was brought back to France on Wednesday. “He feels relieved to be in France and looks forward to addressing the charges against him,” Me Philippe Ohayon shared.

On Tuesday, the public prosecutor of Marseille, Nicolas Bessone, stated that Félix Bingui is linked to multiple investigations concerning drug trafficking and conspiracy. At this stage, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty. In a social media post on Monday, Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin labeled Bingui as “one of the largest drug traffickers in our country” and accused him of “attempted homicides as part of an organized group” during an interview with BFMTV on Wednesday.

Following Darmanin’s comments, Me Philippe Ohayon sent a letter to the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM), expressing concern that the political figure had publicly discussed the criminal responsibility of a defendant who has yet to be formally charged. This, he argued, undermines the principles of judicial independence and the presumption of innocence. “The Keeper of the Seals should refrain from commenting on a defendant’s guilt,” the lawyer reiterated.

Ohayon further criticized Darmanin for allegedly using this extradition as an opportunity for personal gain, which he stated is strictly prohibited. The ongoing territorial war over lucrative drug trafficking points—reportedly generating up to €80,000 in daily revenue—has led to significant violence in Marseille, resulting in 49 deaths in 2023, including four collateral victims. Thankfully, the number of drug-related fatalities decreased to 24 in 2024, largely due to the cessation of hostilities, with the DZ Mafia gaining the upper hand over the Yoda clan, as confirmed by the Marseille prosecutor.

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