Darmanin Declares “Very Tough” Fight Against €5-6 Billion Drug Trafficking Networks
Paris, France – November 21, 2025 – French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin today announced a renewed offensive against drug trafficking organizations operating within France, estimating their illicit revenue between 5 to 6 billion euros annually. The declaration follows a recent surge in violence linked to drug-related crime, including the fatal shooting of a 26-year-old man in the Hauts-de-Seine department on november 19, 2025. This escalating conflict threatens public safety and underscores the immense financial power fueling criminal activity across the country.
The Minister’s comments signal a heightened commitment to dismantling these networks,which authorities say are responsible for widespread distribution of narcotics and associated criminal enterprises. The battle, Darmanin stated, will be “very very tough,” requiring sustained and coordinated efforts from law enforcement agencies. The case of the recent shooting has galvanized public attention and prompted calls for increased security measures and harsher penalties for drug traffickers. The victim’s brother, Amine kessaci, has become a prominent voice demanding justice, and his mobilization, alongside broader civil society engagement, is viewed as a potential catalyst for change.
Darmanin highlighted the scale of the challenge, emphasizing the vast financial resources at the disposal of these criminal groups. The estimated €5-6 billion in annual profits allows traffickers to corrupt officials, intimidate communities, and invest in increasingly elegant methods of operation. Authorities are focusing on disrupting the entire supply chain, from international sources to street-level distribution, and targeting the financial assets of key players.