Sébastien Delogu sparks controversy with allegations of police complicity in Marseille drug trafficking

During a political meeting in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, Sébastien Delogu, deputy from La France Insoumise (LFI) and mayoral candidate for Marseille, caused a stir by alleging that kilos of cocaine ordered by the state have disappeared, and that drug money is being hidden within police stations. Delogu referenced 387 kilos of cocaine, valued at around eight million euros, missing from the Office anti-stupéfiants (Ofast) 'Trident' operation. He suggested this as part of his argument for cannabis legalization to combat drug-related crime.

These claims, however, remain unconfirmed by ongoing judicial investigations. Local officials swiftly condemned the allegations as damaging to the reputation of the police. The prefect of Bouches-du-Rhône labeled the statements harmful, while Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed firm support for law enforcement's efforts against trafficking. Delogu, who faces legal challenges unrelated to these remarks, currently polls at 14% ahead of the municipal elections.

His history of contentious remarks about the police adds context to this latest episode, which has intensified the heated debate around law enforcement and drug policy in Marseille.