Mayor of Alès Threatened; DZ Mafia Releases Video Denying Involvement

Mayor Christophe Rivenq of Alès (Gard) received a series of threats on 16 July, including a letter signed "DZNG" and two 9 mm bullets delivered to his home. The mayor and his family were placed under police protection and were exfiltrated by RAID units following the escalation.

A few days later, individuals claiming to represent the Marseille‑based criminal network DZ Mafia posted a video on social media denying any role in the intimidation. In the recording they condemn the act as "lâche et odieux" and say they do not target elected officials, insisting the threats were carried out by unknown persons seeking to harm society. Police investigators are reviewing the video while continuing to identify the true perpetrators behind the attacks on the local elected official.