13 Dec 2018 | 03:06 PM UTC
France: Police launch operation in Strasbourg December 13
Police launch operation in Neudorf area of Strasbourg as of 15:00 (local time) on December 13; avoid the area, transportation disruptions expected
Event
Police special forces have launched an operation in the Neudorf area of Strasbourg as of 15:00 (local time) on Thursday, December 13. According to local reports, police have evacuated the area and cleared all vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Transportation disruptions are expected vicinity of the operation. Avoid the area and adhere to police directives.
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 two people and wounding 14 others. Interior Ministry officials confirmed military troops had been deployed to secure the market and exchanged fire with the gunmen, wounding him, before he reportedly fled. The suspect had previously 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.
