Over 1,000 vehicles burned and more than 500 people detained across France during New Year’s night, with limited urban unrest reported. Interior Ministry announced 1,173 cars torched, up from 984 in 2025, calling the night “calmer.” A total of 505 detentions occurred, with 403 leading to arrests and custody – higher than 420 detentions and 310 arrests last year.
Local authorities noted fewer disturbances in suburbs compared to 2025, with reduced and less severe attacks on law enforcement. Police faced fireworks in cities like Nice, Lyon, Strasbourg, and Rennes.
Massive police deployment
Around 90,000 police and gendarmes mobilized nationwide from December 31, including 10,000 in Paris and suburbs, unchanged from prior year. In Paris, 125 arrests aged 17-53: 33 for violence, 15 for group gatherings intent on violence or damage, 10 for psychotropic possession, and 8 for drug use.
Also read: What we know about the New Year’s fire in Crans-Montana
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