France to Open High-Security Prison for Top 100 Narcotics Traffickers by July

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin outlines plans for a facility to isolate the most influential drug traffickers and prevent external communication.

The new high-security prison will house the 100 most significant narcotics traffickers in France, with operations set to begin by July 31, 2025.
Four potential sites are under consideration: Arles, Vendin-le-Vieil, Saint-Maur, and Condé-sur-Sarthe, with a final decision expected within ten days.
The facility will feature advanced security measures to eliminate external communication and minimize judicial extractions, inspired by Italy's anti-mafia detention model.
The initiative aims to curb the continuation of drug trafficking operations from within prisons, targeting individuals identified as highly influential in coordinating external activities.
Plans include expanding the model to two or three additional facilities by 2026, accommodating up to 700 traffickers in total.