Tension rises as vandals scout Marseille shops ahead of mobilization day, with merchants fearing theft and protests.
Tension rises before mobilization day
Three days before a new mobilization day on October 31, 2026, tension remains high in Marseille. Local merchants report increased anxiety as groups of young people, including minors as young as 14, are suspected of conducting reconnaissance for potential vandalism. Vandals act openly in commercial areas
In Marseille, vandals are reportedly entering shops openly, pretending to be regular customers. One merchant described how four young individuals told them, "we are coming back on Saturday," laughing. These groups are scouting stores, especially those with valuable items like branded clothing. Stores are vulnerable and unprotected
Many shops in the area are poorly protected, relying only on simple wooden panels to secure display windows. With many stores already closed, the remaining merchants feel exposed. Vandals are seen riding scooters and bicycles, openly stating their intentions to break into shops. Merchants struggle with uncertainty
Marie-Pierre Cartier, president of the Commerce Positif association, says merchants are unsure whether approaching individuals are genuine customers or scouts. This uncertainty has led to sleepless nights and constant monitoring of surveillance footage. Suspicious listings draw government action
More than 1,700 suspicious online listings have been identified, with some vandals claiming to resell stolen goods on the Internet. Minister of SMEs Serge Papin announced that these listings have been removed from resale platforms. New legislation aims to address unrest
The Senate approved the "vandal-payer" bill in response to previous incidents, introducing stricter measures to maintain order. However, some on the left have criticized the bill for potentially violating the right to protest.
