In recent weeks, student protests have led to blockades in front of schools, and the presence of police officers without visible RIO numbers or wearing hoods has sparked strong reactions and viral videos on social media. The RIO is a seven-digit identification number that all police officers in uniform are required to wear. The Defender of Rights and the Council of State have repeatedly stressed the importance of ensuring this mandatory number is clearly visible, emphasizing that it is essential for accountability and disciplinary procedures. Sociologist Sebastian Roché, author of La police contre la rue, has criticized the situation as a "systemic failure." He argues that the lack of visibility of the RIO number during protests raises serious democratic concerns. "The Constitution provides that the administration must be held accountable for its actions, and the basic element of responsibility research is this number," he explains. Roché highlights that the number, which is the size of a postage stamp, is not systematically worn by officers, especially during tense situations. This, he says, reflects a broader institutional failure where some officers may not adhere to the law, local supervisors may not enforce the rule, and training systems may neglect ethical standards. Police unions, however, challenge these claims. Linda Kebbab, a national delegate for Un1té, argues that the issue is greatly exaggerated by the repeated circulation of images on social media. "Non-wearing of the RIO is ultra-marginal," she says, adding that 99% of officers do wear the number. According to Kebbab, the problem is not a desire to hide but rather logistical challenges in daily operations. "Sometimes we forget to change it from our tactical vest to our winter jacket or summer polo," she explains. She also notes that officers are often identifiable by their faces, which are visible in photos and videos, and that cameras are everywhere, making it easier for authorities to track them. Un1té also points out a regulatory inconsistency. While police officers must include their civil identity in police reports, they are not required to use their RIO number in such documents. Linda Kebbab questions this discrepancy, suggesting that if the RIO is the best way to identify an officer in the street, it should also be used in written reports. The debate over the RIO number highlights the tension between ensuring accountability and addressing the practical realities of police work.