Lyon, May 18, 2026 – An exceptional police deployment was observed in Lyon’s Presqu’île district on Monday morning, May 18. This significant security operation, primarily centered around Place Bellecour, coincided with the official inauguration of Étienne Guyot as the new Prefect of Rhône, succeeding Fabienne Buccio.
Bellecour Square Blocked for Ceremony
Around 9:30 AM, Place Bellecour was cordoned off, and several adjacent streets were closed to traffic by law enforcement. These included Rue de la Barre, Rue Gasparin, and Rue Boissac. The new Prefect of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Étienne Guyot, participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Sanctuary of the Resistance and Deportation on Place Bellecour at 10:00 AM, honoring those who died in all wars.
Étienne Guyot previously served as Prefect of Gironde and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region from 2023 to 2026. Notably, in 2023, he had also succeeded Fabienne Buccio in Bordeaux when she was appointed to Lyon, marking a continuity in their career paths.
Police Also Managed Swatch Store Crowds
The Prefecture confirmed that the police deployment also served to manage the crowds gathered to purchase new Swatch watches. Several dozen customers had been waiting outside the Bellecour store since Sunday night. Law enforcement was present to prevent any potential disturbances, similar to incidents reported over the weekend in Lyon and across France related to the sale of these popular watches.
The area was reopened to traffic around 11:00 AM, concluding the security operation that ensured both the smooth conduct of the prefect’s inauguration ceremony and public order around the commercial establishment.
Context of the Event
This event underscores the dual role of law enforcement in urban centers: ensuring the security of official ceremonies and maintaining public order during significant commercial events. The coordination between these functions highlights the complexities of urban management in a major city like Lyon.
The deployment, while extensive, was temporary and aimed at minimizing disruption while fulfilling its objectives. Residents and visitors were advised of the temporary closures and re-routing measures in advance where possible.
The inauguration of a new prefect is a significant administrative event, marking a change in regional leadership. The presence of such a high-ranking official necessitates stringent security protocols, particularly in a prominent public space like Place Bellecour, which is a central hub in Lyon.
The situation at the Swatch store reflects a growing trend of consumer enthusiasm for limited-edition product releases, which can sometimes lead to large gatherings and potential public order challenges. The proactive police presence aimed to mitigate these risks, drawing lessons from previous incidents.
The swift reopening of the streets after the events demonstrates effective operational planning and execution by the local authorities, minimizing prolonged inconvenience for the city’s inhabitants and commuters.
