Morocco, Algeria and Israel top list of countries favored by French fugitives

Morocco is the most common destination linked to French fugitives wanted by authorities, followed by Algeria and Israel, according to an internal police analysis obtained by BFMTV.

The analysis by France’s National Fugitives Search Brigade, or BNRF, examined active Interpol red notices issued by France and identified the countries most frequently associated with fugitives based on where they are believed to be.

Morocco ranks first, with 218 French fugitives listed as potentially being in the country. Algeria follows with 124, while Israel rans third with 87.

Tunisia is next with 59 fugitives, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 48. Turkey ranks sixth, whole Britain is seventh with 34 fugitives and the United States eight with 20.

The police analysis breaks down the suspected offenses linked to fugitives in each country, showing major differences between destinations.

The police analysis excludes terrorism-related offenses, which fall under the responsibility of other French services.

Israel stands out for financial crimes. About 91% of French fugitives potentially located there are wanted in connection with financial offenses, making it the leading destination for fugitives sought in such cases.

Meanwhile Morocco is the main destination linked to French fugitives wanted for frug trafficking. Such cases account for 49% of the fugitives potentially located in the country.

The profile is different in Algeria and Tunisia. In Algeria, 41% of the fugitives are linked to common-law offenses and violence against people outside organized crime. In Tunisia, the figure reaches 47%.

In the United Arab Emirates, financial offenses make up the largest share, at 38%, while drug-related cases account for 33%.

Another 25% of French fugitives potentially located in the UAE are wanted for organized crime offenses unrelated to drug trafficking. Common-law offenses account for the remaining 4%.