French Telecom Giant Orange Shuts Marseille Site Amid Rising Gang Violence

Orange temporarily closed its Marseille site due to rising drug-related gang violence, following the murder of Mehdi Kessaci. The closure, supported by the employment minister and staff representatives, highlights escalating crime issues. BNP Paribas also plans staff relocation in response to similar threats in northern Paris.

In a move to safeguard its employees, French telecoms giant Orange has decided to temporarily shut down its operations in Marseille amidst escalating gang-related violence. This decision, acknowledged by the nation's employment minister, underscores the rising drug crime risks in the area, spotlighted by the recent murder of Mehdi Kessaci.

Jean-Pierre Farandou, speaking on RTL radio, expressed support for Orange's preventive measures, emphasizing the urgent need for increased measures against drug trafficking in regions like Marseille's Saint-Mauront. With 1,000 employees at risk, Orange's action reflects the critical safety concerns due to the current tumultuous environment.

Echoing the sentiment, Sébastien Crozier, representing Orange staff, stressed the criticality of the situation. Meanwhile, BNP Paribas is also restructuring due to safety concerns, moving staff from a northern Paris site amidst broader efforts to combat the city's rising crime rates attributed to cocaine trafficking.

(With inputs from agencies.)