ALBAWABA – Romanian authorities have arrested Mohamed Amra, known as "The Fly," one of France’s most wanted fugitives. Amra, who had been on the run since May 2024, was captured in Bucharest by the city’s First Police Department in a high-profile operation.
A Criminal Career That Escalated Behind Bars
Born on March 10, 1994, in Rouen, France, Amra initially engaged in petty crimes but quickly gained notoriety in the criminal underworld. While serving time in prison, he expanded his influence, allegedly orchestrating violent extortion and even ordering assassinations from behind bars.
French authorities had linked him to the murder of a drug trafficker in Normandy and a violent extortion case in Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray. His criminal activities culminated in a dramatic prison escape in May 2024, during which two prison officers were killed—an incident that launched an extensive European manhunt.
Widespread Arrests and International Investigation
In the wake of Amra’s escape, law enforcement agencies across Europe intensified their search, leading to the arrests of multiple individuals suspected of aiding his flight. Authorities believe at least ten people assisted in hiding or transporting him during his time on the run.
The Arrest in Bucharest
Amra’s capture was confirmed by Romanian police, who released a video showing him appearing shocked and disoriented with dyed orange hair, surrounded by masked officers. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau commended the operation, while Romanian Interior Minister Cătălin Predoiu stated that authorities tracked and apprehended Amra within 48 hours of receiving intelligence about his location.
Awaiting Extradition
Amra is currently being held in a detention center in Bucharest, where he awaits legal proceedings for extradition to France. Authorities continue their investigations to dismantle any remaining criminal networks connected to his operations.
