Five Hostages Taken by Armed Inmate at Arles Prison; Minister Confirms Situation Resolved

Jan 3, 2025, 12:09 PM

On Friday, January 3, 2025, a hostage situation occurred at the Maison Centrale d'Arles prison in Bouches-du-Rhône, southern France. An inmate, known to have psychological disorders, armed with a homemade bladed weapon, took five people hostage, including four medical staff and a prison guard, during a medical visit. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin confirmed the incident, stating that all means have been mobilized to address the situation. Special intervention forces, including the RAID, ERIS, and ELSP units, were deployed to the scene. According to recent reports, the hostage situation has ended with the arrest of the prisoner.