In the past few days, Gérald Darmanin, Minister of State, Keeper of the Seals and Minister of Justice of France, visited the site destined to house the future Penitentiary Citadel of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, in French Guiana. The facility will be reserved for the most dangerous prisoners.

The new complex will be built in the heart of the Amazon rainforest and will be equipped with state-of-the-art security systems. The planned investment is around EUR 400 million. With a capacity of 500 places, the institute should be operational by 2029.

The project is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the fight against drug trafficking – a growing phenomenon in the region – and combating organised crime. In fact, the Minister’s visit is part of a development and security plan for French Guiana, with the aim of promoting territorial cohesion and territorial control.