French Minister Announces Arrest of Algerian Influencer Rafik Meziane on TikTok Amid Diplomatic Tensions, No Charges Filed

Jan 22, 2025, 10:41 AM

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced the arrest of Algerian influencer Rafik Meziane, known as 'DJ Rafik' or '9ochiha', for allegedly inciting violence on the TikTok platform. The arrest took place amid heightened diplomatic tensions between France and Algeria, following the recent arrests of several other Algerian influencers in France for similar reasons. Retailleau emphasized the need for a firm stance against such actions, stating 'Ne rien laisser passer' (Let nothing pass). The Paris prosecutor's office, however, criticized Retailleau's announcement as 'premature', noting that no charges have been filed against Meziane at this stage and that his health condition was incompatible with custody. Meziane was released and is scheduled for a medical examination and a subsequent court appearance.