French Anti-Drug Activist Amine Kessaci Faces Serious Threats, Political and Police Support Intensifies

Amine Kessaci, a 22-year-old anti-drug trafficking activist, was urgently exfiltrated from a political meeting in Aix-en-Provence on February 5, 2026, after authorities recognized grave threats against his safety. The National Anti-Organized Crime Prosecutor's Office has taken charge of investigating the threats. This intervention underscores the seriousness of the danger Kessaci faces, coming amid a backdrop of personal tragedy after losing two brothers to drug-related violence in recent months.

Kessaci’s activism against drug trafficking, which has already cost him dearly, continues nonetheless. He attended a meeting for Socialist Party candidate Marc Pena when security concerns prompted his swift removal. Following the incident, he reached out to Benoît Payan, mayor of Marseille, who expressed deep concern for Kessaci and his family’s safety. Payan emphasized the broader democratic stakes, stating, “If the French democracy were to be controlled by mafias and drug traffickers, it would send the worst signal.” Marine Tondelier, another political figure, praised Kessaci’s courage and resolve in the face of intimidation.

Despite the threats, Kessaci declared, “I will not be silent,” signaling his intent to adapt his approach by increasing his use of social media and press outreach to continue his campaign against drug trafficking.

Kessaci’s plight highlights the ongoing challenges within regions like Marseille, where drug trafficking has serious social impacts and political figures have progressively voiced their support for activists taking significant personal risks. The immediate concern remains Kessaci’s protection, and the case has mobilized political and law enforcement attention to ensure his safety and pursuit of justice.