France: Security operation continues in Strasbourg as threat level raised Dec. 12 /update 3

Event

A security operation continues in the Neudorf area of Strasbourg as of the early morning hours (local time) of Wednesday, December 12, in search of a terror suspect who killed three people on the evening of Tuesday, December 11. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner announced the government has raised the security threat level to its highest level and several hundred additional security forces have been deployed to support police operations in Strasbourg. Authorities also implemented increased border checks and have strengthened security at Christmas markets nationwide. A security perimeter remains in place around the Neudorf area; a heavy security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be anticipated in the area.

Context

A gunman opened fire on crowds near a Christmas market located on the Grand Île of Strasbourg at approximately 20:00 on December 11, killing at least three people and wounding 12 others. Interior Ministry officials confirmed military troops deployed to secure the market and exchanged fire with the gunmen, wounding him, before he reportedly fled. Authorities cordoned off the area surrounding the Neudorf area shortly after the incident, and have restricted access to the A35 and RN4 roads. The suspect had been flagged for radicalization by French intelligence services and antiterrorism police units have taken over the investigation.

Advice

Individuals in Strasbourg are advised to remain vigilant, report all suspicious objects and behavior to the police, anticipate localized transportation disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.