Marseille, November 23, 2025
Amine Kessaci, a 22-year-old French anti-drug and environmental activist from Marseille, vowed to continue his mission despite the fatal shootings of his younger brother Mehdi Kessaci on November 13, 2025, and his half-brother Brahim in 2020, both murders linked to drug-related violence.
Violence Against Activist’s Family
Mehdi Kessaci, aged 20, was shot dead in Marseille in an attack authorities believe was directly connected to Amine’s outspoken anti-drug stance. This incident follows the 2020 murder of Amine’s half-brother Brahim, which was attributed to rivalries within drug trafficking networks. Due to ongoing threats, Amine is currently under police protection while he demands justice for both brothers and other victims of drug-related crime.
Public Outcry and Solidarity
The murder of Mehdi ignited widespread outrage. On November 22, thousands gathered in Marseille to honor Mehdi’s memory and call for stronger action against drug violence. This demonstration inspired solidarity marches across at least 25 other French cities, highlighting national concern over escalating drug-related homicides.
Government and Political Response
The French government has recognized the gravity of the situation. President Emmanuel Macron and Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the recent killings as a “turning point” in France’s ongoing drug crime crisis, which has claimed over a dozen lives in Marseille alone this year. Both pledged enhanced government measures, including appointing specialized anti-drug prosecutors and boosting police forces in affected areas. Politicians from multiple parties have united in calls for justice and comprehensive reform.
Escalating Drug-Related Violence in Marseille
The targeting of family members of activists marks a troubling escalation in violence by drug gangs, moving beyond direct confrontations to intimidation through attacks on relatives. Marseille, already burdened by organized crime and drug trafficking, has seen a surge in killings in 2025, underscoring the deep-rooted challenges law enforcement faces.
Symbol of Resistance and Call for Reform
Amine Kessaci’s story has become emblematic of the high personal costs borne by those opposing drug crime in France. His persistence in activism despite devastating losses highlights the urgent necessity for systemic strategies to combat drug-related violence and protect advocates. The public and political responses signal a critical moment demanding sustained resources, enhanced education, and specialized law enforcement efforts to address this crisis at its core.