The Rhône Prefect on violent robberies: "We currently have a feeling of impunity growing among Algerians in an irregular situation, which is causing us problems. We are unable to deport them."
Fabienne Buccio, the Rhône prefect, granted our newspaper an exclusive interview on Tuesday about security. She was specifically asked about the increasing number of attacks on people in the department.
In light of the Departmental Action Plan for Restoring Daily Safety, what is the assessment regarding safety in public transport?
"In 2023 and 2024, we had positive announcements to make, with a 23% and then a 28% drop in violence on public transport. This year, we have seen an increase in incidents, with 20 more cases of violent robberies. This is not neutral. We used to have the safest transport in France. We have, with Sytral [the public transport union], very good coordination. They are installing the cameras we need. We launched [in March 2024], in the gendarmerie zone, a brigade specializing in public transport, this work will end up paying off."
Are violent robberies generally on the rise?
"We have a very sharp increase, we don't have the detailed figures. We are arresting a lot of people, 60% are foreigners. And of that 60%, at least, if not more, than half are Algerians. We currently have a feeling of impunity growing among Algerians in an irregular situation, which is a problem for us. We are unable to deport them. If they are convicted in court and end up in prison, that's one thing. When I can place them in a CRA [administrative detention center], upon release from prison, I place them, to avoid putting them directly back on the street. Judges are increasingly keeping them there for 90 days," the maximum period.
You cannot exclude any Algerian in an irregular situation?
" For a year, we haven't had any passes for Algeria from the Consul General in Lyon. Even when they have passports, and we send an escort, they refuse their nationals. " […]
Fdesouche
