France, April 24 -- France will start seizing drug users' phones across the country as part of a crackdown on gangs blamed for a wave of prison attacks. The move expands a trial in Bayonne aimed at stopping deals made through encrypted messaging apps.

Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said the plan was based on work by prosecutors in Bayonne, southwest France, where phones used for drug transactions have already been seized.

"The law allows us to seize a cell phone, a car, a motorcycle, or a quad bike," Darmanin told FranceInfo radio on Thursday. He said these items can be "confiscated" and sold before any conviction.

"Seizures in general of money, cars, belongings - are sometimes more effective than prosecution," he said.

Bayonne pros...