France to Build High-Security Narco-Prisons in French Guiana to Combat Drug Trafficking

paris, france - French Justice Minister plans to construct a high-security prison in French Guiana to tackle overpopulation and house dangerous drug offenders. The project aims to combat drug trafficking in the region.

France's Initiative to Build High-Security Prisons in French Guiana

The French Justice Minister, Gérald Darmanin, is pushing for the construction of a high-security prison in the jungle of French Guiana, an overseas department of France. The new facility, with a construction cost of 400 million euros, is intended to address overcrowding in the existing Rémire-Montjoly prison and accommodate the most dangerous drug offenders in France.

Combatting Drug Trafficking

French Guiana, bordering Suriname and Brazil, serves as a crucial transit point for cocaine headed to Europe. Minister Darmanin's decision to target drug trafficking at this location is strategic, aiming to disrupt the drug trade at its source.

As part of the fight against escalating drug crime, Darmanin has also announced the opening of two ultra-high-security prisons in Pas-de-Calais and Orne departments. These specialized narco-prisons will enforce strict isolation measures, inspired by anti-mafia tactics in Italy.

Key Features of the Prisons

The narco-prisons will implement stringent measures such as limited visits, constant searches, 24/7 electronic surveillance, and strict isolation. Additionally, the facilities will be equipped with phone jammers and drones to prevent incarcerated cartel leaders from continuing criminal activities.

The construction of a third heavily fortified prison in French Guiana, set to open in 2028, is expected to play a pivotal role in the fight against drug trafficking. The isolated location will prevent inmates from maintaining contact with their criminal networks.

Local Opposition and Criticism

Local politicians have expressed discontent with Darmanin's prison project, arguing that French Guiana should not house criminals and terrorists from the mainland. Criticism also revolves around the need for infrastructure development like roads, schools, and hospitals rather than additional prisons.

Some critics are unhappy with the chosen location, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, which was historically a gateway to a French penal colony. The project has stirred memories of France's past practice of exiling convicts to Guyana, away from civilization.

Minister Darmanin has dismissed comparisons to the former penal colony and emphasized the equal security rights of overseas citizens. Despite backlash, he remains steadfast in his plans to enhance security measures in the region.