In a significant breakthrough, Interpol has successfully apprehended two high-profile French criminals who had escaped from prison and were being pursued internationally. The operation, dubbed "Phoenix," was a three-week effort that spanned multiple countries, including Algeria, Jordan, Morocco, Palestine, and Tunisia. On September 16, Interpol announced that the two fugitives, whose identities have not been disclosed, were arrested in Algeria. One was caught at Algiers airport, while the other was apprehended at the Tunisian-Algerian border.
The two individuals have substantial criminal records. One was serving a 15-year sentence for murder before his escape, while the other is believed to be the mastermind behind a deadly shooting in Toulouse in 2022. According to Interpol, the second suspect had previously been sentenced to eight years in prison for narcotics trafficking, participation in a criminal organization, and possession of firearms. These cases are considered high-profile and have garnered significant media attention.
Operation Phoenix involved a substantial international effort, with women police officers playing a crucial role in the operation. The initiative resulted in the arrest of 48 individuals, including eight people targeted by Interpol's red notices and one person subject to an international diffusion. The operation also led to significant seizures, including 11 luxury vehicles, high-end equipment, nearly €10,000 and $16,300 in cash, 1.8 kilograms of gold, and large quantities of narcotics and contraband.
During the operation, law enforcement agencies conducted over 700,000 checks against Interpol's databases, yielding 246 positive results related to individuals and travel documents. Among the seized items were five travel documents reported stolen or lost, according to Interpol's database. The organization highlighted the effectiveness of international police cooperation, particularly at sensitive border crossings.
María Carmen Muñoz González, Director of Counter-Terrorism at Interpol, praised the operation's success, emphasizing the key role played by female police officers who led the operation. González noted that the arrests of nine internationally wanted individuals, including convicted criminals, demonstrate the value of international police cooperation.
The arrests of the two French fugitives in Algeria bring an end to their extensive manhunt. The operation showcased the capabilities of international law enforcement collaboration in tracking and apprehending high-priority targets. The seized assets and arrested individuals are significant blows to organized crime networks.
The success of Operation Phoenix underscores the importance of continued international cooperation in combating crime. With 48 arrests and substantial seizures, the operation has dealt a notable blow to criminal organizations. Interpol's efforts, supported by its member countries, will likely continue to disrupt and dismantle such networks.
Key points
- Two French fugitives with substantial criminal records were arrested in Algeria by Interpol.
- Operation Phoenix resulted in 48 arrests and significant seizures across multiple countries.
- The operation highlights the effectiveness of international police cooperation in combating organized crime.
