A man has been arrested in the Alpes-Maritimes region after a video containing exceptionally violent threats against the Cannes synagogue and the local Jewish community was circulated online. Authorities confirmed on Monday that the individual, who lives in a neighboring town, was taken into custody shortly after the video was released.
In this video, which has been circulating on social media, the man announces his intention to acquire several kilograms of explosives to destroy the synagogue, explicitly mentioning a charge equivalent to about ten kilograms of C4. He also claims to be of Algerian origin and demands a ransom of several hundred million euros to abandon his plan. The perpetrator of the threats even boasts of being able to “dig a crater” in the place of worship and adds extremely brutal remarks about the city’s Jews, going so far as to promise beheadings on the Croisette.
The mayor of Cannes, David Lisnard, reacted quickly after seeing the video. On social media, he announced that he had immediately alerted the police and confirmed a few hours later that the suspect had been arrested. He praised the swift action of the police and assured everyone that the safety of residents remained a priority.
This case comes amid heightened vigilance around places of worship in France, as authorities denounce a resurgence of antisemitic acts and rhetoric. The investigation will have to determine the suspect’s exact motives, his level of preparation, and any possible accomplices. Magistrates will also have to establish whether the individual actually had the resources or contacts that would have allowed him to carry out his threats.
