VILLEFRANCHE-SUR-SAÔNE, France – A jewellery store in Villefranche-sur-Saône, a town located a few kilometres from Lyon, was targeted in a ram-raid attack on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in the early hours of the morning. The perpetrators, a group of at least six individuals, used a stolen vehicle to smash into the store before setting it on fire and escaping in another car. Police have launched an investigation to track down the suspects, who are believed to have fled towards Lyon.
Early Morning Heist Targets ‘Les bijoux d’Anélia’
The incident unfolded around 4:15 AM at 172 rue d’Anse, close to Place de la Libération. The targeted establishment was “Les bijoux d’Anélia.” According to initial reports, the suspects arrived in a vehicle that appears to have been stolen earlier in the night near Lyon. The assailants repeatedly reversed the vehicle into the storefront, causing significant damage to the shop window.
However, the suspects’ plan did not entirely go as intended. A source close to the investigation indicated that the burglars were unable to gain full access to the entire jewellery store. Despite this, items displayed in the window were reportedly stolen. The precise composition and value of the loot are yet to be determined and will be clarified as the investigation progresses.
Vehicle Set Ablaze, Suspects Evade Capture
Following the ram-raid, the vehicle used to breach the storefront was set on fire directly in front of the shop. The perpetrators then quickly departed the scene in another car before the arrival of law enforcement. Authorities are now actively searching for at least six individuals in connection with the organised theft.
The Lyon police are leading the investigation, particularly since initial information suggests the suspects fled in the direction of the Rhône-Alpes capital. Forensic teams are expected to conduct a thorough examination of the scene to collect any potential clues that could aid in identifying and apprehending the culprits. A witness contacted by actu Lyon reported that the street was partially blocked off on Tuesday morning as a result of the ongoing police operations.
Police Investigation Underway, Focus on Lyon Area
The police have immediately opened an inquiry into the incident, classifying it as an organised theft. The involvement of the Lyon police in the investigation is significant, especially given the indications that the suspects headed towards the city. This suggests a potential connection to criminal networks operating within the broader Lyon metropolitan area.
Authorities are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with information regarding the ram-raid to come forward. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about property crime and the methods employed by organised groups to target businesses. The investigation is expected to involve reviewing surveillance footage from the area and interviewing potential witnesses to piece together the sequence of events and identify those responsible.
This ram-raid serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by local businesses in securing their premises against such audacious attacks. The damage to the jewellery store is considerable, and the financial impact on “Les bijoux d’Anélia” will undoubtedly be significant, beyond the value of the stolen goods.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/villefranche-sur-saone_69264/ils-attaquent-un-magasin-a-la-voiture-belier-la-police-traque-un-commando-en-fuite-vers-lyon_64407037.html
