Lyon Police Union Hosts Citizen March Demanding Increased Resources
The Lyon Police Union, represented by Alliance Police Nationale, is organizing a significant citizen march to address growing security concerns. The rally will take place on Saturday, January 31, in Lyon, along with other cities in France, including Grenoble and Clermont-Ferrand. This event is the first of its kind, inviting the public, associations, and elected officials to unite against rising insecurity and the decline of authority.
Citizen March Details
Scheduled for 11 a.m., the march will commence at Place du Maréchal-Lyautey in Lyon. This initiative aims to send a strong message amidst escalating violence linked to narcotrafficking and the emergence of narcoterrorism.
Rising Violence and Drug Trafficking
In recent years, Lyon has witnessed a staggering rise in violence related to drug trafficking, with ten homicides recorded in 2025 alone, while Marseille reported twenty. The situation has worsened, with authorities now concerned about the transition from narcotrafficking to narcoterrorism in the region. Alain Barberis, the regional secretary of the police union, stresses that the current environment is critical.
Recent incidents underscore these concerns. A Colombian commando was arrested in Lyon for their suspected involvement in a violent incident in Écully last November. Additionally, a young man was severely injured at a drug dealing location in Villeurbanne, further illustrating the dangers present.
Call for Increased Resources
Barberis emphasizes the need for more law enforcement personnel and resources to combat the growing threat. “If we are at war against narcotraffic, we must commit to human resources and budgets,” he stated. He highlighted that weaponry is increasingly prevalent at drug dealing points, contributing to the environment of fear and danger.
- Alarming statistics show that 60% of violent thefts involve foreign nationals, often in irregular situations.
- Furthermore, the administrative detention centers are reportedly overcrowded with known repeat offenders.
Immediate Action Required
With rising incidences of daily violence, including armed robberies and attacks, local communities are feeling the effects profoundly. Barberis warns of the potential for further tragedies, echoing the plight of officer Frank Labois, who was tragically killed in 2020. He calls for “concrete actions” to ensure safety and security in Lyon and its metropolitan area.
The march is poised to become a pivotal moment for community mobilization against the backdrop of increasing violence. Residents and officials alike are urged to stand together to advocate for necessary changes in policing and community safety.
