French fire stations targeted in series of organized burglaries

A series of burglaries targeting fire stations has been reported across several French departments, including Rhône, Ain, Isère, and Gironde. Since early August 2026, at least eleven stations under the SDMIS have been broken into to steal operational equipment.

Criminals are specifically targeting high-value hydraulic rescue tools, such as cutters and spreaders used for vehicle extrication, as well as Halligan bars. Authorities note that these tools are being repurposed by criminals to force open heavy or armored doors during other robberies, such as at service stations.

In response, the Rhône prefecture and SDMIS have implemented a security reinforcement plan. This includes increased police and gendarmerie patrols around fire stations, the installation of additional detection devices, and inspections by security experts. Judicial investigations have been opened into organized crime and criminal association regarding these thefts.