The idyllic Breton town of Morlaix, France, known for its cobblestone streets, creperies, and rich history, finds itself grappling with a modern-day scourge: the escalating drug trade. While historically renowned for its linen merchants during the Renaissance, Morlaix now faces a different breed of dealer, one peddling cocaine and other illicit substances, bringing an unsettling wave of insecurity to this once-peaceful community. Mayor Jean-Paul Vermot, while proud of Morlaix’s heritage, recounts personal threats from dealers and points to bullet-riddled doors and public housing complexes as evidence of the encroaching drug problem. This influx of narcotics and accompanying violence reflects a broader national trend in France, with smaller cities and rural areas increasingly becoming targets for drug trafficking networks.
France, already a significant European market for illegal drugs, is experiencing a surge in concern over the domestic drug trade and its violent consequences. Experts observe that the trade has become increasingly visible in smaller cities like Morlaix, disrupting the tranquility of these communities. This expansion of the drug market into “La France profonde,” or deep France, has sparked alarm, as these areas are often considered the heartland of French identity and values. A recent Senate report highlighted the intensification of trafficking in rural areas and medium-sized cities, accompanied by a worrying rise in violence, exposing citizens to what can be described as “war scenes.”
The escalating drug problem has prompted a national debate and calls for action. French officials are contemplating stricter measures to combat traffickers, with conservative politicians blaming even casual drug users for fueling the deadly industry. The proposed crackdown has been likened to a “war on drugs,” echoing similar campaigns in other countries. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has used strong language, warning of the “Mexicanization” of France, suggesting a potential loss of government control and the rise of powerful drug gangs. While some experts consider this characterization exaggerated, the increasing number of disturbing incidents outside major metropolitan areas underscores the growing concern.
The recent cases of drug-related violence, including a 5-year-old child shot during a car chase and a teenager killed in a gang shootout, have shocked the nation. These incidents, though overshadowed by the ongoing gang war in Marseille, highlight the spread of drug-related violence beyond traditional hotspots. Marseille, France’s second-largest city, has become a notorious center for organized crime, witnessing countless deaths in recent years and the emergence of teenage contract killers. The violence plaguing Marseille serves as a stark warning of the potential consequences of unchecked drug trafficking.
The French government has proposed various measures to combat the escalating drug crisis. These include the establishment of a national prosecutors’ office and specialized courts for organized crime, increased police presence, and the appointment of a liaison magistrate in Colombia to address the source of cocaine supply. However, the focus has not solely been on law enforcement. There has also been a push to address the demand side of the equation, with some officials placing blame on drug users for contributing to the problem. Interior Minister Retailleau directly addressed drug consumers, emphasizing the human cost of their habits.
While a range of illicit drugs are available in France, cannabis and cocaine are the most prevalent. Cocaine trafficking in Europe, including France, surged in the late 1980s as the US market became saturated and authorities intensified their crackdown. This shift in drug trafficking patterns has resulted in increased cocaine seizures in Europe, surpassing those in the United States. The spread of the drug trade to smaller towns is attributed, in part, to the expansion of big-city gangs seeking new markets. Technology, particularly the use of cellphones for drug ordering, has facilitated this expansion, making it easier for dealers to reach customers in rural areas. This “Uberization” of the drug trade mirrors the expansion of fast-food chains, highlighting the increasing accessibility of illicit substances across the country. In Morlaix, Mayor Vermot confirms the growing presence of harder drugs, noting that recent police surveillance revealed a diverse range of users from all social strata, demonstrating the widespread nature of the problem.
The drug crisis in Morlaix and across France has sparked debate about the appropriate response. While some residents, like shopkeeper Daniel Ricoul, advocate for a tougher stance on delinquency, others, such as night watchman Aurélien Cariou, express concerns that the proposed policies may disproportionately target racial minorities. Despite differing views on the best approach, there appears to be bipartisan support for addressing the issue. Senator Jérôme Durain, a Socialist like Mayor Vermot, notes that many left-leaning mayors across France acknowledge the problem and support proposed changes to the system. This potential cross-party consensus offers a glimmer of hope for effective legislation in a deeply divided political landscape. While recent arrests in Morlaix have provided some respite, Mayor Vermot acknowledges the long-term nature of the struggle. He welcomes some of the proposed measures, particularly those empowering law enforcement, but worries that austerity measures might lead to cuts in social programs that help prevent involvement in the drug trade. Despite the challenges, he remains resolute in his commitment to confronting the issue, recognizing the urgent need for continued action.
