**Rise of Drug Crime Reshapes Politics in France's Brest** In the once tranquil port city of Brest, located at the western tip of France, a disturbing trend has taken hold. The city, home to approximately 140,000 people, is facing a surge in drug trafficking, which has led to an increase in violent incidents, including shootings and stray bullets. This alarming situation has become a major talking point ahead of France's local elections, forcing a rethink in the city's politics. Brest, once considered an oasis of calm, has seen a significant shift in its dynamics. The city's mayor, Socialist François Cuillandre, who has been in office since 2001, has had a change of heart on the issue of creating a municipal police force to tackle the growing drug menace. If re-elected, Cuillandre has vowed to establish a local police force to combat the problem. One of the areas most affected by the rise in drug trafficking is the district of Bellevue, a short tram ride from the city centre. While the area appears calm and welcoming, with children playing at the ice rink and local shops lining the streets, this facade hides a darker reality. Residents like Ophélie, who moved to the neighbourhood three years ago, have witnessed a decline in the area's atmosphere. She has seen young people openly dealing drugs during the day, and mortar fireworks being fired at night, creating a sense of unease. Ophélie is not alone in her concerns. The recent spate of violent incidents has included a tragic shooting in late October, which left a 20-year-old man dead in a suspected case of drug-related violence. In early January, stray bullets even passed through an apartment, miraculously without causing any injuries. As the local elections approach, the people of Brest are demanding action from their leaders to tackle the rising tide of drug crime. The situation in Brest serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing many cities worldwide, including those in Nigeria, where the growing threat of drug trafficking and related violence is a pressing concern.