The great escape. Eight people escaped from the administrative detention center (CRA) in Nice. They slipped into the attic, before reaching the street using sheets, we learned on Monday from police and judicial sources. A ninth person was arrested during the operation.
With 40 places, almost always full, and quite dilapidated, the Nice CRA is located in the middle of the city in a former barracks that has become a police station and is slated for demolition. In addition to general measures in and around the barracks, 70 border police officers take turns to ensure surveillance and security within the CRA building.
An escape through the attic
In one of the rooms, a metal wall protecting the ceiling was twisted, which allowed people to make a hole and access the attic, the Nice prosecutor’s office explained in a press release. From there, the escapees reached the roofs, then managed to reach an anti-projection net and then the street using sheets.
Aged 23 and 31, the escapees are of Tunisian, Algerian and Libyan nationality. Five of them had been detained with a view to being returned to the border after having served one or more prison sentences for common law offences. The three others were released from police custody, also for common law offenses. Two investigations were opened, one judicial entrusted to the border police and the other administrative. The eight escapees are still wanted, despite this incredible escape.