Lyon Sees Major Police Operation: 200+ Officers, 47 Arrests, Significant Drug Seizures
Lyon, France – A large-scale “reinforced security operation” was carried out by the National Police in Lyon’s 5th and 9th arrondissements between Monday, February 16, and Saturday, February 21, 2026. The initiative, part of the interdepartmental directorate of the National Police of the Rhône, saw the deployment of an extensive force across specific neighborhoods.
Extensive Mobilization and Arrests
The operation involved a substantial number of personnel, including 209 national police officers, 30 municipal police officers, two municipal agents, 19 TCL (Lyon public transport) controllers, and 12 railway security agents. This combined effort led to the control of nearly 376 individuals and a total of 47 arrests.
Among the arrests, eight were made in connection with judicial operations targeting drug trafficking. Additionally, two foreign nationals in an irregular situation were apprehended and handed over to the border police. Authorities also issued 39 fixed-penalty notices for various offenses, including drug possession, lack of insurance, carrying weapons, unauthorized occupation of building lobbies, and driving without a license.
Drug Seizures and Anti-Fraud Efforts
In the fight against illegal narcotics, police successfully seized 18.6 kilograms of cannabis and 5,984 euros in cash during the operation. Furthermore, five anti-fraud inspections were conducted, revealing several infringements. These included three formal notices for non-compliance with hygiene regulations, two procedures for undeclared work, and one request for administrative closure of a business.
Public transport also saw increased scrutiny, with 2,666 travelers controlled during a coordinated operation within the TCL network. This resulted in a relatively low number of 27 verbal warnings issued by the RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens, likely a typo in the original text, referring to TCL’s operating company).
Road Safety and Broader Impact
On the roads, 88 infractions were recorded as part of twelve control operations. The Prefect of Rhône highlighted the broader impact of such operations, noting that 32 similar initiatives conducted in 2025 and 2026 across Lyon, Villeurbanne, Meyzieu, Oullins, Vénissieux, Rillieux-la-Pape, Bron, Saint-Priest, and Saint-Fons have collectively led to the apprehension of 631 individuals. These operations have also resulted in the seizure of 75 kg of drugs, 187,981 euros in cash, 404,750 euros in assets, and 32 vehicles.
The successful execution of this reinforced security operation in Lyon underscores the ongoing commitment of local authorities to combat crime and enhance public safety within the city and its surrounding areas.
