Medellín, 06/12/2026: Sonner Nusret, known as “El Francès,” was arrested on June 12, 2026, by Colombian police in Medellín. The 45-year-old Frenchman was suspected of leading a transnational drug cartel operating across several continents. He was accused of involvement in the import and export of narcotics and acting as a member of a criminal organization.
The arrest occurred following an Interpol notice that had drawn attention to Nusret’s activities. Previously, the French judiciary, represented by the Jurisdiction Nationale de Lutte contre la Criminalité Organisée (Junalco) in Paris, had issued an arrest warrant against him. Nusret was already known in France for attempted murder and drug trafficking.
According to investigations, Nusret led an international drug cartel operating through various countries. The drugs were transported via sea and air routes, passing through Colombia, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Thailand before reaching Europe. This information was confirmed by a source close to the case.
The arrest of “El Francès” marks another success in the international fight against drug trafficking. Previously, other French drug smugglers had been arrested in Colombia, including Sofyan Ben Hamdane, who was detained in 2025, and Traore Mamoudou, who was captured in Barranquilla in 2022. These arrests underline the close cooperation between French and Colombian authorities in combating drugs.
Colombian authorities have announced they will continue investigations to identify and apprehend further members of the network. It is also being reviewed whether Nusret was involved in other international drug smuggling operations. French authorities have already taken steps to request the extradition of “El Francès” to France, where he must face trial.
This arrest sends a strong signal to international drug cartels and demonstrates the determination of law enforcement agencies to combat global drug trafficking. Cooperation between countries remains a decisive factor in the fight against organized crime.
French authorities have informed the public about the arrest and emphasize the importance of international cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. They continue to call for vigilance and encourage the public to report suspicious activities to increase security in France and worldwide.
The investigations are ongoing, and further details about Nusret’s activities and his network are expected to be released in the coming weeks. The authorities are working closely to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable.