Urban violence: the prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes and Éric Ciotti impose a curfew in Nice until October 26

Following urban violence over the weekend of October 17 and 18, the prefecture of Alpes-Maritimes and the mayor of Nice, Éric Ciotti, announce an exceptional strengthening of security measures. A curfew for minors from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. comes into effect in several districts of the city until October 26. In parallel, several prefectural decrees restrict in particular the transport of weapons, fuel and pyrotechnic material until October 25.

The response to urban violence over the weekend is reflected in a restriction on nighttime travel for minors. Éric Ciotti, mayor of Nice, announced the signing of a municipal decree establishing a curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.

The measure affects several sectors of the city: the city center, the Old Town, the Trachel district and the South Station. According to the City, the scheme comes into effect this Monday, October 19 and will remain applicable until Monday, October 26, 2026 at 6 a.m.

This decision comes after two days marked by violence and vandalism in downtown Nice. On Saturday, 85 people were taken into police custody, half of whom were minors, according to figures released by the municipality.

The mayor justifies this restriction by the need to protect residents and prevent further incidents. « This decree comes into effect this evening at 9 p.m. It is adopted in full consultation with the Prefect of Alpes-Maritimes », declared Éric Ciotti.

The elected official acknowledges that this measure will entail constraints for young people who wish to travel in the evening. « Naturally, I am well aware of the constraints this will pose for young people who want to visit our city peacefully in the evening », he clarified, before invoking an emergency situation to justify this exceptional measure.

Éric Ciotti denounces the violence of the weekend

In his statement, the mayor of Nice adopted a firm tone towards those responsible for the violence. « This decree aims to protect Nice residents from the hordes of thugs who swept through Nice’s streets this weekend, who stole, who looted, who attacked police officers », he stated.

The municipality indicates it wants to maintain its efforts to ensure the safety of residents. Faced with the events of the weekend, Éric Ciotti also made it clear that the city would not give in to fear or resignation.

The mayor nevertheless calls for understanding from those affected by the curfew, emphasizing the temporary nature of the measure. « But this is an emergency situation. And we are facing it with an exceptional measure that will only last until next Sunday », he declared.

The municipal decree ultimately provides for application until Monday, October 26 at 6 a.m. Éric Ciotti concludes by recalling his priority: « And you know it, the safety of Nice residents is my priority. »

Complementary prefectural measures until October 25

In parallel with the municipal curfew, the prefect of Alpes-Maritimes announced several prohibitions aimed at preventing new disturbances to public order. These measures concern in particular the possession, carrying, transport and use of mortars and pyrotechnic articles.

The transport of fuel in small containers, as well as that of liquids and flammable or corrosive products, is also prohibited. The carrying and transport of weapons of any kind and objects capable of constituting weapons by destination are affected.

The wearing of protective equipment that could be used during disturbances to public order, such as ski goggles, gas masks and helmets, is also subject to prohibition. These prefectural provisions are to apply until Sunday, October 25 at 11 p.m.

The security system remains mobilized in downtown Nice, with forces pre-positioned to intervene in case of new outbreaks. The Sentinel force is also deployed on Avenue Jean-Médecin, near shops.

Finally, the prefecture reports about fifteen shops affected by vandalism and looting on Saturday, October 17. The establishments concerned were contacted to ensure individualized follow-up, particularly for filing complaints and procedures related to damages suffered.