France Designates Two High-Security Prisons for Top Narcotics Traffickers

The facilities in Pas-de-Calais and Normandy will isolate 200 of the most dangerous drug lords by October 2025, with extensive security upgrades planned.

The prisons of Vendin-le-Vieil in Pas-de-Calais and Condé-sur-Sarthe in Normandy will house 200 of France's most dangerous narcotics traffickers under maximum security conditions.
Vendin-le-Vieil is set to begin operations for this purpose on July 31, 2025, while Condé-sur-Sarthe will follow on October 15, 2025.
These facilities were selected for their geographic isolation and existing high-security infrastructure, with additional upgrades planned, including fortified perimeters and advanced surveillance systems.
The detainees will be kept in complete isolation to prevent external communication and the continuation of criminal activities, a model inspired by measures used for high-profile terrorists.
Approximately €4–5 million will be spent on security enhancements at each site, including the installation of hygiaphones, improved video conferencing systems, and reinforced windows.