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Controversy Erupts Over French Guiana Prison Expansion
Plans by France to construct a maximum-security prison unit for drug traffickers and Islamic militants close to a former penal settlement in French Guiana have triggered strong opposition from residents and local leaders. The project, part of a larger prison development, has raised concerns about the region’s history and its role in France’s criminal justice system.
New Prison Facility Under Construction
The high-security unit will be integrated into a $450 million prison complex, initially revealed in 2017. The facility, with an expected completion date in 2028, is designed to accommodate 500 prisoners. The chosen location is Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, a town bordering Suriname. Historically, this town served as a destination for prisoners transported by Napoleon III in the 19th century, including those sent to the infamous Devil’s Island off the coast.
Official Announcement and Rationale
French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, during a recent official visit to French Guiana, publicly announced the construction of the high-security wing. In a social media announcement, he specified that 15 of the unit’s 60 cells would be designated for Islamic militants.
According to a French newspaper, Darmanin stated that a key objective of the prison is to isolate suspected drug dealers from their criminal networks. He emphasized the increasing prevalence of drug trafficking organizations, highlighting the necessity for a strong response.
Reports from French media, citing the Justice Ministry, indicate that inmates from French Guiana and other French Caribbean territories will be prioritized for placement in the new correctional facility.
Local Opposition and Concerns
Anger and Disappointment
The announcement has provoked widespread anger throughout French Guiana, a French overseas territory situated in South America. The region, marked by its history as a penal colony, previously housed political prisoners, including army Captain Alfred Dreyfus.
- Dreyfus was famously imprisoned on Devil’s Island, a penal colony depicted in the acclaimed novel “Papillon.”
Lack of Consultation
Jean-Paul Fereira, interim president of French Guiana’s territorial collective, expressed his dismay, noting that the plan to build a high-security wing was never discussed with local authorities beforehand.
Statement from the Territorial Collective
In a statement shared on social media, Fereira stated that elected members of the Collectivity, along with the population of Guiana collectively found out about the project via the media, was to their surprise and indignation.
- He deemed the action disrespectful and underscored that the 2017 agreement centered on a new prison to alleviate overcrowding in the existing main prison.
Concerns About Inmate Profile
Fereira made it clear that while local officials have consistently advocated for stronger measures to fight organized crime, French Guiana should not become a destination for criminals and radicalized individuals from mainland France.
Parliamentary Opposition
Jean-Victor Castor, a member of parliament representing French Guiana, has voiced similar objections. He communicated directly with the Prime Minister of France to articulate his concerns, emphasizing the lack of consultation with local representatives.
Condemnation of the Project
In a public statement, Castor denounced the project as an affront to their history, a political provocation, and a step backward towards colonial practices. He urged France to abandon the proposed prison expansion.
At the time of reporting, a representative for the French Justice Minister has not provided an official statement regarding the controversy.