2024-11-25 09:01:00
The Frais-Vallon district, in Marseille, in January 2024. VALLAURI NICOLAS/MAXPPP
With the drugs that they gave to their clients during the transactions, the two young dealers slipped in an SOS, a small note scribbled: “Hello, we are sequestered by the network. Please call the police. He forces us to sell for free and beats us with bars. Please we need help (we are 15 years old). » Despite these discreet calls for help, it was not a consumer who rescued them from the clutches of the Frais-Vallon network, but the firefighters, after they had jumped from the second floor of a tower to escape to their captors.
The Bouches-du-Rhône Assize Court will judge, from Monday, November 25, six young people from Marseille for the kidnapping and violence inflicted over several days on two 16-year-old teenagers, forcibly recruited to sell drugs. Three of the accused – they are all in their twenties – also answer for rape of one of the two victims.
Both runaways, Younes and Kevin – the first names have been changed – showed up on January 21, 2022 in Frais-Vallon, a city in the northern districts of Marseille, to sell drugs. A member of the network promises them remuneration of 100 euros per day and accommodation in “a hotel with a jacuzzi”. At the end of the session, the tone changes suddenly, the two teenagers are accused of a 500 euro hole in the accounts, the first blows rain down on the deal point, at the foot of the “red tower”. In a room where they are taken, “from three, they went to a good ten and they played with us”Younes said. “We were pissing blood”reported Kevin, forced to get naked and dance in front of phones filming him for social networks.
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An anonymous tip to the police indicated that the two young boys had been forced to perform oral sex on each other, which they disputed. “I would have gone for revenge if that had been it. Now, I don’t even want revenge. The blows go away. We were the ones who made idiots of going to work in their neighborhood”explained Younes. The teenager will no longer respond to any summons from investigators or the investigating judge. He had not looked his torturers in the eyes so as not to be able to identify them. A year after the events, Younes’ father requested the withdrawal of his son’s complaint “for fear of being found and attacked again”.
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What are the main factors contributing to the vulnerability of youth in districts like Frais-Vallon to drug trafficking and exploitation?
**Interview with Dr. Lisa Moreau, Youth Outreach Specialist in Marseille**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Moreau. We’re discussing a troubling case that emerged from the Frais-Vallon district of Marseille. It involves two teenagers who were kidnapped and forced to sell drugs. Can you provide some context about the situation these young people are facing in such communities?
**Dr. Moreau:** Thank you for having me. The situation in districts like Frais-Vallon is increasingly dire. Young individuals are often targeted by drug gangs that exploit their vulnerabilities. Many of these youth come from challenging backgrounds, making them more susceptible to coercion. This recent incident highlights a horrific aspect of this issue—traffickers not only recruit minors but also subject them to physical abuse and extreme violence.
**Editor:** The story mentioned that the young dealers managed to slip an SOS note to their clients. What does this tell us about their situation?
**Dr. Moreau:** The SOS note is quite telling. It reflects the desperation and fear experienced by these teenagers. It shows they were aware of their predicament and sought help, albeit in a very dangerous way. This kind of distress signals the extent of control these gangs exert over their victims; when victims feel trapped and hopeless, they’re willing to take such risks to escape.
**Editor:** As you pointed out, young people from vulnerable communities are often at risk. What measures can be taken to protect these individuals and prevent further recruitment by drug gangs?
**Dr. Moreau:** There needs to be a multifaceted approach. First, increasing community programs that offer support and education can help provide alternatives to joining gangs. One critical aspect is cultivating trust between youth and local authorities, ensuring they feel safe reporting their situations. active intervention by law enforcement, social services, and non-governmental organizations is essential to dismantle these networks that prey on young people.
**Editor:** The trial for the individuals charged with this case is ongoing. What message do you believe needs to be conveyed to the community regarding the legal repercussions of such actions?
**Dr. Moreau:** It’s vital for the community to see that there are consequences for these heinous actions. The judiciary’s role in addressing violence and exploitation, particularly against minors, is crucial in sending a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated. Increased awareness and community support for these judicial processes can also empower victims, encouraging others to seek help rather than remain silent.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Moreau, for sharing your insights on this heartbreaking situation. It underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable youth in urban areas.
**Dr. Moreau:** Thank you for shining a light on this important issue. Together, we can work towards a safer environment for all young people.
