France Targets Narcotrafficking in Marseille with New Courts and National Strategy

November 7, 2024
France Targets Narcotrafficking in Marseille with New Courts and National Strategy
  • In 2023 alone, Marseille witnessed 49 drug-related murders, underscoring the severity of ongoing gang conflicts, particularly between the DZ Mafia and Yoda gangs.

  • To enhance law enforcement efforts, the government seeks to improve protections for informants who provide critical information about drug trafficking activities.

  • The proposed strategy includes the establishment of special assize courts dedicated to organized crime cases involving drugs, which will be staffed solely by professional judges.

  • Migaud also suggested creating a 'national coordination unit' aimed at assessing the drug trafficking threat and developing an effective operational strategy.

  • On November 8, 2024, Justice Minister Didier Migaud and Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau unveiled a comprehensive plan to combat organized crime in Marseille, with a particular focus on narcotrafficking as a national priority.

  • Recent statistics reveal a dramatic increase in cocaine seizures, which have surged fivefold over the past decade, contributing to escalating violence and a rise in youth involvement in drug-related crimes.

  • Local leaders, including the Socialist Mayor of Rennes, Nathalie Apéré, have voiced their concerns over the violence linked to drug trafficking, particularly following tragic incidents that affected civilians, including children.

  • Retailleau highlighted the urgency of addressing drug-related violence and vendettas, likening the threat posed by drug lords to that of terrorism and advocating for a unified national effort.

  • Both ministers emphasized the need for a robust governmental response, continuing a trend of stringent security measures aimed at curbing drug trafficking that has persisted for over three decades.

  • The plan aims to target both drug consumers and sellers, proposing measures such as 'prohibition orders' for convicted dealers and potential cuts to social aid for traffickers.

  • While Migaud acknowledged that resolving the drug crisis will be a long-term challenge, he expressed confidence in achieving results through political determination and a commitment to sustained efforts.

  • The announcement follows a series of violent incidents related to drug trafficking, which Retailleau describes as leading to a 'Mexicanization' of France, marking a critical juncture in the fight against narcotrafficking.

Summary based on 16 sources


Get a daily email with more France News stories

More Stories