Mohamed Amra, a notorious French fugitive known as "The Fly," was arrested in Romania and extradited to France after a nine-month international manhunt. His capture follows a violent prison escape that resulted in the deaths of two guards, igniting a political outcry over crime in France.

Key Takeaways

  • Mohamed Amra was arrested in Bucharest, Romania, after a lengthy manhunt.
  • His escape from a prison transfer van in May 2024 led to the deaths of two prison guards.
  • Amra is facing multiple charges, including murder and drug trafficking.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the arrest as a significant success.

The Violent Escape

In May 2024, Mohamed Amra staged a daring escape from a prison transfer van in Normandy. Armed assailants ambushed the convoy, resulting in the tragic deaths of two guards and injuries to three others. This incident not only highlighted the vulnerabilities in France’s prison system but also sparked a nationwide manhunt for Amra, who had been serving time for burglary and was under investigation for more serious crimes, including drug trafficking and homicide.

The Manhunt

Following his escape, French authorities launched an extensive search for Amra, with Interpol issuing a notice for his arrest. Investigators believed he had fled France, prompting alerts to law enforcement agencies across Europe. The manhunt lasted for nine months, during which time Amra managed to evade capture by changing his appearance and maintaining a low profile.

Arrest in Romania

Amra was finally apprehended on February 22, 2025, in Bucharest. Romanian police had been monitoring his movements after intercepting communications that indicated he was preparing to leave the country. He was arrested near a shopping center while attempting to blend in with the local population. Despite dyeing his hair orange in an attempt to evade detection, authorities were able to identify him and execute the arrest.

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Extradition to France

Following his arrest, Romanian authorities quickly approved Amra’s extradition to France. On February 25, he was handed over to French officials at an airport near Bucharest. Upon arrival in France, he was taken to the main courthouse in Paris, where he will face the consequences of his actions, including the original sentence he escaped and new charges stemming from his criminal activities.

Political Reactions

French President Emmanuel Macron praised the successful operation that led to Amra’s capture, calling it a "formidable success". He acknowledged the cooperation of Romanian authorities in bringing the fugitive to justice. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau also expressed gratitude to the forces involved in the operation, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in combating crime.

Conclusion

The arrest and extradition of Mohamed Amra mark a significant moment in France’s ongoing battle against organized crime and violence. As he faces justice for his actions, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement agencies face in maintaining public safety and security.

Sources

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