France under pressure: prison attacks linked to crackdown on drug trafficking

15 April 2025 , 10:38

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France under pressure: prison attacks linked to crackdown on drug trafficking

Multiple prisons in France have been the target of automatic weapon fire and burning vans and cars.

Jails in Toulon, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, Valence and Nîmes, Luynes, Villepinte and Nanterre were all under ‘coordinated’ attacks overnight.

Vehicles were set alight in prison car parks, while a prison in the southern city of Toulon was fired at with an automatic weapon.

Pictures from the scene shows large bullet holes in the door and several ammunition cases on the ground.

French minister of justice, Gerald Darmanin, confirmed the attacks, adding that he is en route to Toulon this morning.

He said in a statement: ‘Prisons are facing intimidation attempts ranging from vehicle burning to automatic weapon fire.

‘I am travelling to Toulon to support the officers involved. The Republic is facing drug trafficking and is taking measures that will profoundly disrupt criminal networks. It is challenged and will be firm and courageous.’

Elizabeth Baker

Technology & Business Editor