France arrests person for fear of attack during Olympic torch relay – JURIST

French authorities arrested and detained a 26-year-old man on Thursday ahead of the Olympic torch relay in Bordeaux, French Interior Minister GErald Darmanin.

Authorities who arrested the man in Gironde suspected the man was planning a violent attack to take place while the Olympic torch was being carried through the Bordeaux region on Thursday afternoon. Darmanin thanked police officers and French Interior Ministry agents for maintaining security at the festival.

Public Prosecutor of Bordeaux Frédérique Porterie stated that although the suspect “admitted having considered committing an act”, he did not appear to have set a target and did not specifically mention the Olympic torch relay.

The man was identified as Alex G. and is from the southwestern region of France. Although he had no criminal record, he was linked to the “incel” movement, which is known for inciting violence against women. French authorities began investigating him on May 17, when Alex posted online about a fatal shooting in California in 2014. Alex wrote, “We miss you, Elliot,” referring to the shooter, Elliot Rodger, who was also linked to the “incel” movement. Authorities claimed that Alex planned this attack to mark the 10th anniversary of the California shooting.

The Olympic flame began its 11-week journey through France earlier this month and will pass through 450 cities before the start of the Olympic Games in Paris on July 26. France has implemented various security measures in recent months to prepare for the Olympic Games and ensure the safety of participants and spectators.