Assault in Sarthe: Taxi Driver Attacked by Radicalized and Armed Suspect
Sarthe (France) - On the night of Wednesday 17 to Thursday 18 July 2024, a taxi driver was violently attacked in Sarthe by an armed individual, known for his radicalization. The suspect, aged 26, was apprehended according to information provided by the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office (Pnat), which is in charge of the investigation.
Dramatic Unfolding of Events
The incident began when the suspect forced his victim, at gunpoint, to drive him from Le Mans to La Ferté-Bernard. Once he arrived at his destination, he held up the driver to steal his car. The situation escalated when he injured the driver in the neck with a bladed weapon. Fortunately, despite his injuries, the driver managed to escape on foot and his life is not in danger.
Tracking and Arresting the Suspect
The hunt for the fugitive was immediate and intense. Considerable resources were mobilized to locate the suspect, who had quickly abandoned the stolen vehicle. The Pnat specified that the suspect, recently incarcerated in the Condé-sur-Sarthe penitentiary center (Orne), was well known to the specialized services for his radicalization, as reported by Ouest-France.
Charges and Investigation
The charges against the suspect are serious. An investigation has been opened for "attempted murder in connection with a terrorist enterprise", "kidnapping and sequestration in connection with a terrorist enterprise" and "terrorist criminal association with a view to preparing crimes against persons".
Reactions and Importance of Prevention
This case highlights the ongoing dangers of radicalisation and the importance of prevention and monitoring measures for individuals at risk. The speed of the police response and the coordination between the various services enabled the suspect to be arrested, thereby preventing a potential escalation of violence.