Drug trafficking remains a top priority for the authorities as one of the main security issues in Nice. The prefect of Alpes-Maritimes, Laurent Hottiaux, and the public prosecutor, Damien Martinelli, presented a one-year report on actions taken in the Moulins district during a press briefing at the Saint-Augustin police station.
A 2025 law to strengthen the fight against drugs
This presentation was part of the national strategy to combat drug trafficking. The report is based on the law of June 13, 2025, adopted to “free France from the trap of drug trafficking.” The authorities reiterated that drug trafficking fuels violence, promotes the exploitation of minors, and is accompanied by an increase in consumption.
The law strengthens penalties against traffickers and consumers. It also improves coordination between services and introduces new tools, such as online reporting.
More than 160 legal proceedings in 2026
Over the past year, police operations have increased in the Moulins district. Between January 1 and April 14, 2026, law enforcement recorded:
- 161 legal proceedings
- 207 police custody cases
- 103 referrals to court
- 47 incarcerations
Seizures have amounted to:
- 107.5 kg of drugs
- 344,088 euros in cash
- 8 firearms
Since 2023, seven drug dealing points have been dismantled. Five remain identified, with two still active.
The “3T” drug dealing point dismantled after a year of investigation
A recent operation targeted the “3T” drug dealing point, located on Avenue de la Méditerranée. After more than a year of investigations, twelve people have been indicted.
Investigators seized more than 300,000 dollars in cryptocurrencies. This operation illustrates the structuring of drug networks in Nice.
A coordinated action between police and justice
The presence of the prefect and the prosecutor underlines the coordination between police, justice, and state services. The aim is to strengthen the judicial chain, from arrest to judgment.
The authorities also mention an evolution in practices. Home drug deliveries via messaging apps are developing.
In 2025 and 2026, nearly 98 kg of cannabis resin have been seized in this context.
Now, the prefect of Alpes-Maritimes, Laurent Hottiaux, hopes to dismantle the last drug dealing points by the end of the year. To date, five are still active in the district, with two very active ones remaining.
The fight against drug trafficking in Nice is intensifying with the goal of further destabilizing networks that remain very well organized in Nice, especially in the Moulins district.
