«Ça devient de pire en pire» : à Roubaix, une opération antidrogue «place nette XXL» en présence de Darmanin

In an extensive anti-drug operation dubbed "Place Nettes XXL," French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin led a crackdown in Roubaix and other cities to combat drug trafficking. The operation, part of a larger effort to prevent France from falling under the control of drug cartels, involved the deployment of numerous police officers and the establishment of checkpoints. Minister Darmanin emphasized the importance of targeting both the "arms and head" of the "octopus" of drug trafficking to disrupt its operations and maintain public order.

French Authorities Crack Down on Drug Trafficking with 'XXL Clean Sweep' Operation

By Maximilien Carlier, Correspondent in Roubaix

ROUBAIX, France—In a bid to combat the escalating drug trade, French authorities launched a nationwide "XXL Clean Sweep" operation on Monday, targeting major cities, including Roubaix. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, who visited the northern city, emphasized the urgency of the crackdown to prevent France from falling into the clutches of drug traffickers.

Red-brick homes were cordoned off, and police officers patrolled every corner in Roubaix. The operation, similar to the one conducted in Marseille last week, underscores the government's determination to tackle drug trafficking head-on. A map of Lille's drug dealing hotspots was prominently displayed on the hood of a police vehicle in the city's Pile district.

"We are at a turning point," Darmanin declared. "Either we abandon the fight against drugs, and we become like the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, or certain South American countries, where drug traffickers hold sway, or we continue to fight this scourge, as France has always done, and intensify our efforts. We must not only sever the tentacles of this octopus but also strike at its head to prevent the accumulation of wealth and power that threatens the very foundations of our society."

Reclaiming Neighborhoods

The "XXL Clean Sweep" operations aim to restore neighborhoods to their residents. Céline, a local observer, welcomed the increased police presence. "It's comforting to see such a large deployment. It brings a sense of calm because things have been getting worse. There's more drug dealing, more crime. It's not pleasant for the people in the neighborhood," she said. "As a woman, I'm afraid to go out after a certain hour. It's anxiety-provoking."

Despite the temporary disruption, Céline acknowledged the futility of such measures. "We know they'll come back," she said, referring to the drug dealers. Resigned to the situation, she saw only one solution: relocation.

Government's Commitment

Darmanin emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking. "We will not let France become a haven for drug traffickers," he said. "We will continue to invest in law enforcement, disrupt drug networks, and prosecute those responsible for peddling these harmful substances."

The "XXL Clean Sweep" operation is part of a broader strategy to address the root causes of drug trafficking, including poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion. The government is also working to strengthen international cooperation and information sharing to combat cross-border drug trafficking.

Public Support

The operation has received widespread public support. A recent poll found that 85% of French citizens believe that the government is not doing enough to fight drug trafficking. The "XXL Clean Sweep" is seen as a step in the right direction, but many believe that more needs to be done to address the underlying social issues that contribute to drug abuse.

As the operation continues, authorities will face challenges in maintaining a long-term presence in affected neighborhoods and preventing drug dealers from returning. However, the government's determination to combat drug trafficking and restore order to French cities is clear.