French and Riviera News Thursday 13th July 2023

News

Search for missing toddler called off - The search for two-year-old Emile has been called off. A massive air and land search had been launched following the toddler’s disappearance from his grandparents’ home in the tiny village of Vernet in the French Alps on Saturday. Investigators say that the focus will now be on the evaluation of evidence already gathered.  In addition, according to BFMTV this morning, Émile was not alone with his grandparents the weekend of his disappearance. A family reunion took place that weekend, with several of the child's uncles and aunts, people of all ages present. The investigation continues.

Police deployed ahead of National Fete – In other news, due to recent riots in France the Minister of the Interior has announced the deployment of 130,000 police and gendarmes from this evening ahead of tomorrow’s national holiday. Gérald Darmanin announced that firm measures would be taken towards those that wish to “spoil the party”.  Since June 30th 150,000 fireworks have been seized, sold illegally with the intention to use in attacks against the police and in public places. Bus and tram services in all major urban areas in France will stop at 10pm. Demonstrations have also been banned until July 15th.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron will not address the nation on July 14th, France’s Fete National, but will do so in the coming days. Macron declared to French media that “he will speak when he feels it is the right time”.