French lawmakers approved a tough new anti-drug law on Tuesday. This move followed a sharp increase in drug-related crime. The rise came after record amounts of South American cocaine entered Europe.

Government Targets Organised Crime

Under the new law, France will create a national prosecutor’s office to focus on organised crime. Additionally, the law will allow prison officials to isolate top drug lords. This aims to prevent them from managing their networks from behind bars.

Moreover, the government will have the power to shut down businesses suspected of laundering drug money. Authorities will also seize assets unless owners can clearly prove where the money came from.

Law Expands Use of Informants

Furthermore, the law will allow more use of cooperating witnesses. These are criminals who provide information on drug networks in exchange for lighter sentences or other benefits.

Controversial Proposal Dropped

Initially, lawmakers had included a measure to give police automatic access to encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. However, during debates, lawmakers removed this controversial idea due to privacy concerns.

Law Based on Senate Warning

The law was inspired by a 2024 Senate report. The report warned that France was at a “tipping point” because of growing drug violence.

As a result of tougher prison rules, several jails came under attack recently. The government linked these incidents to efforts to crack down on drug bosses inside prisons.

On Monday, police arrested 25 suspects involved in the attacks. Authorities charged them with terrorism.

Drug Gangs Expand Beyond Cities

Although police have made record cocaine seizures, drug gangs continue to profit. In fact, they are now moving from big cities like Marseille to smaller towns. These areas are less prepared to handle such violence.

Consequently, drug crime has spread widely across the country.

Political Impact Grows

Meanwhile, the spike in crime has affected French politics. Support for the far-right National Rally party has grown. As a result, the national political debate is shifting further to the right.