Mayor Gilles Fraysse Faces Assault While Protecting Villiers-sur-Orge Sports Complex
In a dramatic confrontation on August 18, Gilles Fraysse, the mayor of Villiers-sur-Orge, found himself in a precarious situation as he attempted to prevent a group of travelers from illegally setting up camp at the town's sports complex. The incident, which occurred around 11 p.m., saw Fraysse surrounded by approximately 28 tractor vehicles and 20 caravans belonging to the travelers. In a video that has since gone viral, Fraysse can be heard pleading, "I am the mayor of the city! You are molesting me!" as he was physically pushed aside by a member of the community.
Fraysse had been alerted earlier that evening by a deputy mayor about the arrival of the first convoy of caravans, which were reported to be entering a sensitive natural area known as the 'soft flow.' Unfortunately, by the time Fraysse arrived, the caravans were already unhitched and settled in. "If this is the case, we have no other choice but to enter into a legal and administrative battle to evict the encampment," he stated, recalling previous invasions of the area that had cost the municipality significantly in repairs and security measures.
Ongoing Struggles with Illegal Encampments
This recent altercation is not the first time Fraysse has faced issues with illegal encampments on municipal property. Earlier in 2023, the sports complex had already suffered two invasions, prompting the installation of a security gate costing €60,000. Despite these efforts, the travelers found alternative access routes, leading to further destruction of property, including the cutting down of trees and damage to concrete fences. Fraysse lamented, “Repairing the damage will cost us several thousand euros. That’s less to redo the schools and the roofs of municipal buildings.”
Following the confrontation, Fraysse filed two complaints: one for destruction and another for assault, and reported that the police were actively searching for the individual who assaulted him. Although the travelers initially left the sports complex, they relocated to a reception area in Brétigny-sur-Orge, leaving Fraysse concerned about their threats to return. To prevent future encroachments, the mayor has installed six concrete blocks to secure access to the stadium, but he emphasizes the need for a more permanent solution.
- Gilles Fraysse's experience highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in managing illegal encampments. The situation in Villiers-sur-Orge is reflective of broader issues in many municipalities across France, where conflicts between local governments and traveling communities often arise. The financial burden of repairs and security measures can strain municipal budgets, diverting funds from essential services such as education and infrastructure. As communities seek to balance the rights of travelers with the need to protect public spaces, mayors like Fraysse are calling for more effective legal frameworks and support from higher authorities.
