French Fugitive Arrested in Thailand Linked to Notorious Drug Lord’s Escape

A French fugitive, Adonis Correa, was arrested in Phuket, Thailand, linked to a violent prison escape of drug lord Mohamed Amra. This incident involved an armed attack on a prison van, resulting in the deaths of prison officers. Correa is expected to be deported to France while Amra, who was apprehended in Romania, faces multiple charges connected to organized crime.

Thai police apprehended a French fugitive, Adonis Correa, on the tropical island of Phuket over a dramatic prison escape involving notorious drug lord Mohamed Amra, known as “The Fly.” Correa, 24, is among two dozen suspects captured in an international pursuit following Amra’s escape from a prison van in northern France in May 2024. Authorities believe Correa is a close associate of Amra.

The arrest took place in Phuket, a popular tourist destination. Thai immigration police reported Correa’s links to a transnational criminal organization responsible for a violent prison break that led to the deaths of two prison officers. This shocking escape involved masked gunmen attacking a prison van, resulting in widespread media coverage and national concern in France.

After months on the run, Amra was ultimately detained in Romania, having altered his appearance and managed to evade capture previously. His escape, which used considerable firepower, left France in disbelief and prompted a global alert for his capture.

Correa had traveled to Thailand on a tourist visa prior to the issuance of an arrest warrant against him. Upon tracking his location in Phuket, Thai authorities executed the arrest on a Wednesday. According to his legal representative, Correa voluntarily approached Thai officials and intends to present his case to French judges.

In light of this arrest, Thai officials have revoked Correa’s visa, and he is currently located in Bangkok pending arrangements for his deportation to France. While no extradition treaty exists between Thailand and France, sources indicate that his return could occur within the coming week.

Amra carries a lengthy criminal history including multiple convictions for violent offenses, dating back to when he was just 15 years old. His connections to organized crime and alleged involvement in drug-related murders further depict a profile of a dangerous adversary to law enforcement. At the time of his escape, he was serving a sentence in Evreux prison for several crimes including conspiracy and armed robbery, with new charges related to attempted murder and gang violence pending.

In conclusion, the arrest of Adonis Correa in Thailand marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the violent prison escape of drug lord Mohamed Amra. Correa’s close association with Amra and his subsequent capture highlight the complexities of transnational crime and law enforcement efforts to apprehend fugitives. As international cooperation unfolds, authorities aim to ensure justice for the violent events surrounding this notorious case.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com