Former Paris Prosecutor Believes Drug Trafficking is a Greater Concern than Terrorism
Former public prosecutor François Molins stated on Jan. 28 that narcotrafficking in France has become “perhaps more significant than terrorism,” noting that the issue has spread throughout the entire country.
Molins, known for overseeing investigations into high-profile Islamic terrorist attacks, asserted that the threat posed by narcotrafficking is now potentially greater than that of terrorism.
“It is a significant peril, possibly surpassing the threat of terrorism, given the evolving nature of terrorism since 2015. Narcotrafficking is pervasive, from Marseille to Cantal to Vendée; it is widespread and challenging to contain, coinciding with the surge in drug consumption,” he explained.
Last year, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau warned that drug gang violence in smaller towns could result in the emergence of “narco-enclaves,” drawing parallels to the influence of drug cartels in Mexico.
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“I can foresee the formation of enclaves, small-scale narco-states on French soil. Urgent action is needed to prevent the Mexicanization of our nation,” he emphasized in November 2024.
Molins clarified that France has not reached that stage yet.
“Nonetheless, it is evident that narcotrafficking has acquired immense prominence and resources, posing a severe threat to the social fabric and potentially fueling corruption, especially among certain public figures,” he warned.
The proposed legislation establishes a new national anti-organized crime prosecution office to handle complex cases and collaborate with public prosecution offices.
“Our nation is under siege by this phenomenon, affecting urban areas, medium-sized cities, and rural regions alike,” the report stated.
The report also highlighted the widespread availability of narcotics, including hard drugs, through a network of 3,000 distribution points or encrypted messaging platforms facilitating discreet home deliveries across France.
The escalation of drug trafficking in rural and urban areas has led to a concerning spike in violence, resembling scenes of warfare, the report noted.
Colombies highlighted that these gangs operate as structured entities, akin to multinational corporations, with hierarchies and internal justice systems.
“These criminal groups function like corporate entities, with clear structures and strict penalties for rule violations,” he explained.
He emphasized the formation of self-sufficient groups within certain communities, notably immigrant populations, prioritizing their interests over state authorities.
