LGV: Police Accused of ‘Cruel’ Tactics Against Protesters in Trees – France News

Allegations of Cruel Treatment Surface During LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse Protests

A dispute is brewing in southwestern France over the methods used by law enforcement during the eviction of environmental activists protesting the construction of the LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse high-speed rail line. Anne Stambach-Terrenoir, a Member of Parliament representing the La France Insoumise (LFI) party, has accused police of employing what she describes as “cruel, inhuman, or degrading” tactics against protesters occupying trees near Saint-Jory, in the Haute-Garonne department. The accusations center around the alleged use of bright lights and loud noises intended to exhaust and force the activists to descend. Colonel Stéphane Dallongeville, head of operations for the Haute-Garonne gendarmerie, vehemently denies these claims, asserting that the actions taken were proportionate and focused on ensuring safety and upholding the law.

The controversy unfolded following an operation conducted in the night of February 4-5, 2026, targeting activists occupying the “Guinguette Vaillante” ZAD (Zone à Défendre – Zone to Defend), a protest site opposing the LGV project. The occupation itself concluded on February 9, 2026, according to posts on the collective’s Instagram account. The LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse project, intended to reduce travel times between Bordeaux and Toulouse, has faced sustained opposition from environmental groups concerned about its impact on local ecosystems and agricultural land. The project has been a source of ongoing tension between authorities and activists for several years.

In a letter addressed to the prefect of Haute-Garonne, Stambach-Terrenoir detailed the alleged mistreatment, stating that officers “activated their sirens, shouted, and activated strobe lights” directed at individuals positioned in the trees, “with the aim of exhausting them.” She further argued that deliberately depriving someone of sleep could violate Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading treatment. The deputy included a link to a video posted on Instagram by the “Guinguette Vaillante” collective, appearing to show a powerful, flashing light directed towards the tree canopy during the night operation. The video, which has circulated widely on social media, is central to the debate surrounding the police’s actions.

Gendarmerie Denies Allegations, Cites Safety Concerns

Colonel Dallongeville strongly refuted the accusations, emphasizing that the gendarmerie’s intervention was a response to individuals occupying land they did not own, following either a formal complaint or in relation to a public interest project. “The action of the gendarmerie is not against people in trees, but against people in violation of the law,” he stated. He explained that the operation aimed to address unlawful occupation and ensure the smooth progress of the LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse project, which has been designated as a priority infrastructure development by the French government. The LGV project is expected to significantly improve rail connectivity in the region and boost economic growth.

Regarding the alleged use of strobe lights, Colonel Dallongeville was categorical: “strobe lights, no.” He clarified that while lighting is used during nighttime operations to identify the number of occupants and ensure the safety of both the protesters and the officers involved, the continuous flashing of strobe lights would be counterproductive. He maintained that such a tactic would serve no practical purpose during an intervention. The gendarmerie’s standard operating procedures prioritize the safe and controlled removal of individuals from precarious positions.

After reviewing the video provided by the activists, Colonel Dallongeville reaffirmed his position, stating, “this is not my mode of operation, and I never gave such an order!” He indicated that he would address the matter with his units, while likewise expressing skepticism about the prolonged use of lights throughout the night, deeming it “materially implausible.” He reiterated his firm stance against such tactics. The colonel also dismissed claims of sirens being used during the night, noting the proximity of residential areas and the potential for disturbance.

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding large-scale infrastructure projects in France and the tactics employed by both law enforcement and environmental activists. The LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse, a key component of the French government’s national rail strategy, aims to modernize the country’s transportation network and reduce reliance on air travel. However, the project has consistently drawn criticism from environmental groups who argue that it will damage sensitive ecosystems and disrupt local communities. Anne Stambach-Terrenoir was first elected to the National Assembly in 2022, representing the 2nd constituency of Haute-Garonne, and has been a vocal advocate for environmental protection and social justice issues. According to her Wikipedia page, she holds a degree in musicology from the University of Toulouse-II-Le Mirail and previously worked as a piano teacher.

The Broader Context of ZADs and Environmental Activism in France

The “Guinguette Vaillante” ZAD is part of a broader movement of “Zones à Défendre” that have emerged in France in recent years, often in opposition to infrastructure projects such as highways, airports, and high-speed rail lines. These zones are typically occupied by activists who establish autonomous communities and engage in direct action to prevent construction. The ZAD movement has become a significant force in French environmental politics, raising awareness about ecological issues and challenging government policies. The tactics employed by activists often involve tree-sitting, barricades, and other forms of civil disobedience. The French government has responded with a mix of repression and negotiation, seeking to balance the need for infrastructure development with the concerns of environmental groups.

The debate over the LGV Bordeaux-Toulouse and the tactics used during the eviction of protesters raise essential questions about the balance between public order, environmental protection, and the rights of peaceful assembly. The incident is likely to fuel further debate about the role of law enforcement in managing protests and the appropriate level of force to be used in such situations. The investigation into the allegations of mistreatment is ongoing, and the outcome could have significant implications for future protests and law enforcement practices in France.

As of February 22, 2026, the Haute-Garonne gendarmerie has stated it is reviewing internal procedures regarding nighttime operations in sensitive areas. Further updates on this case are expected following the completion of the internal review and any potential investigations by independent oversight bodies. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and perspectives on this developing story in the comments below.