The brazen attack on a police van carrying a prisoner on a major highway northwest of Paris has left two prison guards dead, three wounded, and the prisoner, Mohamed Amra, on the run. The incident, which involved hooded men with automatic weapons, shocked the nation with its violence and precision.
President Emmanuel Macron vowed to track down the perpetrators, but more than 10 hours after the attack, the assailants remained at large. The attack, captured on security cameras and bystander videos, highlighted a disturbing level of violence on a key route from Paris to Normandy.
The prisoner, Mr. Amra, has a history of criminal activity, including involvement in international drug trafficking. The attack, described as a “war operation” by a police affairs commentator, has sparked a massive manhunt involving hundreds of officers.
The incident has raised concerns about the state’s ability to combat organized crime and drug trafficking in France. The government is facing calls to strengthen law enforcement efforts in the wake of the attack.
The prison guards killed in the attack were described as dedicated professionals with years of experience. Their deaths have prompted calls for improved working conditions and security measures for prison staff.
The French authorities are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice, with Prime Minister Gabriel Attal promising to spare no effort in tracking them down. The country is reeling from the shocking display of violence and the escape of a dangerous criminal.
