In “TP emplois France,” a Telegram channel with 10,000 subscribers, one can find job postings related to the illicit drug trade. These posts seek individuals to fill various roles within the drug economy, such as lookouts, delivery drivers, and salespeople. The language used in these ads reflects the normalization of this underground economy, with employers offering competitive pay and benefits like housing, meals, and access to drugs. The use of Telegram as a platform for recruiting in the drug trade highlights a shift towards digital communication for both employers and job seekers in this sector.
These job postings on Telegram reflect a range of roles within the drug trade, from delivering drugs to customers to coordinating large-scale drug shipments from Spain to France. The salaries offered for these roles vary based on the nature of the work and the associated risks, with some positions paying between 120 and 350 euros per day. Candidates often emphasize their qualifications, such as being underage and having no prior police record, in order to appeal to potential employers. Additionally, some individuals offer their services for illegal activities like burglary, robbery, and kidnapping, further blurring the lines between legitimate and criminal employment opportunities in this sector.
In addition to job postings, Telegram is also used as a platform for branding and marketing drug-related services. Graphic designers offer their skills to create visually appealing identities for drug-selling channels on Telegram, aiming to attract customers with innovative designs. Examples of their work include logos and promotional materials for drug delivery services like “Marrakush 69” and “Ubercoco Night,” as well as references to popular culture like the manga series Dragon Ball. These branding efforts contribute to the professionalization and commercialization of the drug trade in the digital age.
The proliferation of virtual drug sales channels on Telegram has transformed the platform into a hub for drug distribution, with numerous “fours” (selling points) operating online. These channels offer a range of drugs for sale, with detailed descriptions of product qualities and effects, as well as visually appealing packaging designed to attract customers. Some of these virtual stores function in conjunction with physical selling points, while others operate solely through Telegram, providing secure delivery options for customers. The legality of these online drug sales raises questions about the enforcement of drug laws in the digital realm and the challenges of regulating illicit activities in the virtual space.
The shift towards online recruitment and marketing in the drug trade reflects a broader trend of digitalization within the illicit economy. As Telegram channels become central platforms for advertising and conducting illicit activities, law enforcement agencies face new challenges in monitoring and disrupting these digital networks. The commercialization and branding of drug-related services on Telegram illustrate the evolving nature of the drug trade, as individuals and organizations adapt to new technologies and communication channels to expand their operations. Ultimately, the use of Telegram as a tool for recruiting and promoting drug-related activities underscores the complex and multifaceted nature of the illicit drug economy in the digital age.
