In April 2025, several prisons in France were the target of coordinated attacks. Faced with this unprecedented situation, the government announced a series of measures to strengthen the security of staff and infrastructure.

A series of targeted incidents in France

Since 13 April 2025, several French prisons have been targeted by violent acts, including vehicle fires, automatic weapon fire and attacks on prison officers’ homes. The facilities in Toulon-La Farlède, Aix-Luynes, Nanterre and Valence were particularly affected. Demands were posted on a Telegram channel under the acronym ‘DDPF’. The national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation, which has led to the arrest of 25 people to date.

Official support for prison staff

Prime Minister François Bayrou, accompanied by Gérald Darmanin, Minister of Justice, and Bruno Retailleau, Minister of the Interior, visited the Saint-Quentin-Fallavier prison in Isère to meet with the officers assigned there. The authorities reaffirmed their support for the staff and emphasised the essential role of prison guards in the proper functioning of the criminal justice system. The investigation, led by the DGSI, is focusing on drug trafficking.

An action plan to secure the facilities

In response, the French government has announced the upcoming opening of a high-security prison for the 100 most dangerous inmates, particularly those involved in drug trafficking, with transfers scheduled to begin in July 2025. In addition, four new ERIS units will be created. From 2026, a prison police force will be established, with specialised teams and enhanced resources to ensure the safety of staff and sites.

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image credit: Arno Senoner – Unsplash