A series of coordinated attacks targeting prisons across France took place last night, as criminal gangs launched assaults using automatic gunfire and arson, reportedly setting fire to vehicles belonging to prison staff in a campaign described as an act of nationwide intimidation.
The unprecedented wave of violence struck multiple prison facilities in the south and north of the country, with incidents reported in:
- Toulon
- Aix-en-Provence
- Marseille
- Valence
- Nîmes
- Luynes
- Villepinte
- Nanterre
According to early reports, prison staff vehicles were torched outside several facilities, and in some cases, automatic gunfire was directed at the buildings, sparking fears for the safety of both staff and inmates.
Government Response
France’s Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin addressed the nation following the overnight violence, stating:
“These were clearly intimidation attempts against the institutions of justice. We will not allow criminal organisations to threaten the rule of law.”
Darmanin confirmed that security has been heightened at all affected sites, and reinforcements from national police and gendarmerie have been deployed. He also vowed that investigations were underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Motives Unclear, But Organised
While no group has yet claimed responsibility, authorities believe the attacks were coordinated by organised criminal networks, potentially in response to ongoing crackdowns on gang activity and drug trafficking inside and outside prison walls.
French media sources report that the attacks may be linked to recent high-profile prison transfers and tougher restrictions on gang-affiliated inmates.
Staff Safety Concerns
Prison unions have long warned about increasing levels of violence against staff, especially in urban facilities where gang presence remains strong.
One union spokesperson said:
“This is not just vandalism — it’s a declaration of war. Our colleagues are scared. We need more protection, better intelligence, and immediate government action.”
No injuries have yet been reported, but the incidents have sparked widespread alarm across the French justice system.
