Rennes Shooting: Four Men Indicted and Jailed for Attempted Murder and Drug Trafficking

Four men suspected of taking part in a violent shooting linked to drug trafficking in the working-class neighborhood of Villejean, Rennes, have been indicted and remanded in custody, the Rennes public prosecutor’s office announced on Tuesday, April 22. The incident occurred in broad daylight on Thursday, April 17.

According to investigators from the Central Directorate of Public Security (DCSP), the suspects, aged between 21 and 23, allegedly opened fire multiple times in an attempt to reclaim control over a key drug-dealing location on the Kennedy plaza — a strategic hub in the local narcotics network.

A Brutal Attack

Three men were injured by gunfire, mainly to the legs and abdomen. A fourth man was struck by the fleeing assailants’ car. Although his condition was initially life-threatening, the prosecutor confirmed on Tuesday morning that his condition had since stabilized.

The suspects, originally from the Paris region, Tours, and Marseille, were apprehended within 48 hours. One was arrested near a burned-out vehicle believed to have been used by the assailants. The other three were located in an apartment. One of them, currently hospitalized, will be interviewed by an investigating judge at his bedside.

Serious Charges and a Clear Message

Three of the suspects face charges of “attempted murder in an organized gang” and “criminal conspiracy,” crimes punishable by life imprisonment. The fourth is charged with “drug trafficking” and “criminal conspiracy,” which carry a maximum sentence of ten years.

Investigations led by the Specialized Interregional Jurisdiction (JIRS) in Rennes have uncovered a well-organized drug trafficking ring that had been operating on the Kennedy plaza since January. Authorities believe the shooting was a violent attempt to strengthen territorial control.

A Firm Stance from the Government

“We will not ease up in our fight against drug trafficking,” said Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau on X. “This will be a long and difficult battle, but we will win it — in Rennes and beyond.”