Two Men Indicted for Attempted Murder in Rennes
In a significant development in Rennes, France, two men have been indicted for attempted murder linked to drug trafficking. The incident occurred on October 6, 2024, when a man known for drug offenses was shot at in the city center around 3:45 a.m. The victim was shot in the abdomen by two assailants on a scooter, who were dressed in dark clothing and hooded. According to Rennes public prosecutor Frédéric Teillet, the victim was targeted due to a dispute over a drug debt, highlighting the ongoing issues related to drug trafficking in the region.
The victim was severely injured and rushed to the Pontchaillou University Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Following the incident, an investigation by the Rennes Organized and Specialized Crime Division led to the identification and arrest of the two suspects on October 28. They were charged with attempted murder by an organized gang, criminal conspiracy, and possession of illegal firearms, and are currently in pre-trial detention.
Ongoing Drug-Related Violence in Rennes
The attempted murder is part of a broader pattern of violence linked to drug trafficking in Rennes. Mayor Nathalie Appéré has noted that the city has been experiencing a “turf war” among drug traffickers, which has escalated in recent months. Just days before the shooting, on September 30, gunfire erupted in the Place du Gros-Chène neighborhood, leaving one person injured. Additionally, a recent shootout during a car chase on October 26 resulted in a 5-year-old child sustaining serious injuries, further underscoring the alarming rise in violent crime associated with drug trade disputes in the area.
Community Concerns and Law Enforcement Response
The surge in violent incidents has raised concerns among local residents and prompted calls for increased law enforcement action. The Rennes public prosecutor's office is committed to tackling organized crime and enhancing public safety. The recent arrests and indictments are seen as a step towards addressing the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking and associated violence in the city. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to curb the influence of drug-related crime in Rennes.
