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Macron Visits Marseille, Vows State Will Defeat Drug Gangs

The trip highlights a counter-terrorism‑style strategy after a spate of drug-related killings.

Overview

  • The president’s schedule includes a public discussion with La Provence readers on regulating minors’ access to social networks, the inauguration of a new police station and the Baumettes prison expansion, and a progress review of the “Marseille en grand” plan including the Saint‑Charles station project.
  • Authorities recently mounted a large operation in the northern districts, deploying about 1,500 officers to hit 15 dealing sites simultaneously, according to the prefect.
  • AFP counts 17 drug-related homicides in the Bouches‑du‑Rhône since January, fewer than in 2024 (24) and especially 2023 (50).
  • The Élysée says roughly two‑thirds of the €5 billion plan’s credits are committed, citing 15 schools delivered, work underway on 86 more, and 350 additional police, while the Cour des comptes’ 2024 audit criticized weak coordination and follow‑up.
  • Local leaders, including Mayor Benoît Payan, demand concrete measures and stronger public services as the presidency defends four years of action and promises to intensify the fight against narcotrafficking.