The upcoming trial of Dahbia Benkired, accused of the brutal murder of 12-year-old Lola in October 2022, is set to commence from October 20 to 24, 2025, at the Assizes of Paris. This case has deeply shocked the French public, stirring emotions and igniting political debates surrounding issues of immigration and public safety.
According to reports from the Paris prosecutor's office, Benkired, born in 1998, faces serious charges including the murder of a minor under 15 years, accompanied or preceded by rape, torture, or acts of barbarism, as well as rape committed on a minor with torture or acts of barbarism. These allegations stem from the horrific events of October 14, 2022, when Lola was found lifeless in a plastic box in the inner courtyard of her apartment building in Paris after failing to return home from school.
The tragic discovery was made by Lola's father, who, while searching for his daughter, reviewed surveillance footage. He saw her enter the building with an unknown woman, who later left carrying heavy luggage, including a plastic trunk. This pivotal piece of evidence led to the swift arrest of Dahbia Benkired by the Brigade Criminelle the following morning.
Benkired is an Algerian national who entered France legally in 2016 with a student residence permit. However, at the time of the murder, she was under an obligation to leave French territory (OQTF) for two months, a fact that has drawn significant criticism. The failure to execute this expulsion order has sparked outrage from right-wing and far-right political groups, who argue that it reflects broader issues within the immigration system.
The French government has responded to these criticisms, condemning what it termed the "indecency" of the political exploitation surrounding the case. The tragedy of Lola's death has resonated deeply within the community, leading to a surge of public mourning and demands for justice. In November 2022, hundreds of students participated in a white march in her honor, reflecting the widespread impact of her loss.
During her custody, Dahbia Benkired reportedly recounted disturbing details of the crime, claiming she had "imposed [on Lola] to shower before committing sexual assaults and other violence that led to death." The prosecutor, Laure Beccuau, stated that Benkired allegedly concealed Lola's body in the plastic box.
As the trial date approaches, the case continues to draw media attention and public interest. Lola's family, who hails from Fouquereuil and Lillers in the Pas-de-Calais region, has expressed a deep desire for justice. Lola's mother, Mrs. Daviet, has been vocal about her wish for the highest judicial proceedings to ensure that the heinous crimes against her daughter are thoroughly addressed.
In a poignant reflection on the impact of the tragedy, Lola's father, who passed away in 2023, shared his heart-wrenching experience, stating, "I'm not doing well at all. In reality, she [Dahbia Benkired] didn't just destroy the life of a child, she destroyed a whole family. It goes from uncles to aunts." This sentiment underscores the far-reaching consequences of the crime, which has left a community grappling with grief and outrage.
The upcoming trial is expected to be closely monitored, not only for its legal implications but also for its potential to influence ongoing discussions about immigration and public safety in France. As the nation reflects on this tragic case, many are calling for reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In summary, the trial of Dahbia Benkired represents not only a quest for justice for Lola but also a crucial moment for France as it confronts the complexities of its social and political landscape. With the eyes of the nation upon it, the proceedings are likely to evoke strong reactions and further discussions about the issues at play.
