Armed Inmate Takes Five Hostages in Arles Prison Infirmary; One Released

Jan 3, 2025, 12:28 PM

A hostage situation is underway at Arles prison in southern France, where a 37-year-old inmate armed with a homemade bladed weapon is holding five staff members hostage in the prison infirmary, including four medical personnel and one prison guard. The incident began around 11:15 am on Friday when the inmate, serving time for armed rape and known for severe psychiatric issues, took advantage of receiving medical care to seize the hostages. One hostage has since been released. Special intervention forces, including RAID, ERIS, and ELSP, have been deployed to the scene. The hostage-taker is reportedly demanding a transfer to another facility. The Minister of the Interior, Gérald Darmanin, stated that all means are being mobilized to address the situation.