Mass Escape from Paris-Vincennes Detention Center
During the night from Friday to Saturday, fourteen foreigners managed to escape from the Paris-Vincennes administrative detention center (CRA) in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. The escape went unnoticed until Sunday morning when one of the fugitives was arrested during a routine check. The Paris prosecutor's office and police sources have confirmed the incident, revealing that thirteen individuals are still at large.
Previous Incidents and Security Measures
This is not the first time the Vincennes CRA has experienced such an incident. On December 25, eleven men awaiting deportation had previously escaped after setting fire to mattresses in a holding room. Similarly, on November 11, eight men managed to escape by digging a hole in the ceiling of their room. These recurring escapes have prompted the police chief to announce measures such as strengthening the center's security system with additional personnel and enhanced video surveillance.
The recent escape involved the detainees cutting a piece of mesh from the roof of one of the exterior spaces of the detention center. Despite the increased security measures, the escape was not detected until much later. An investigation has been launched to understand the breach and prevent future occurrences.
A CRA is a closed facility guarded by the police, designed to hold foreigners subject to a removal decision pending their forced return. The Paris-Vincennes CRA, located in the Bois de Vincennes, has a capacity of 235 places.
- The Paris prosecutor's office has confirmed that an investigation is underway, focusing on the collective escape of the detainees. The 12th arrondissement police station is leading the investigation.
- Despite the previous incidents and the measures taken to enhance security, the recent escape highlights ongoing challenges in managing administrative detention centers. The authorities are taking steps to address these issues and ensure the safety and security of the facilities.
