Paris: France detained over 20 individuals across the country in connection with recent attacks on prisons and prison staff. The arrests were part of a coordinated effort involving operations in key regions such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and Bordeaux.

According to Anadolu Agency, twenty-two people were taken into custody as part of the operations, which were reported by France 24. The operations and subsequent arrests were confirmed by a statement from the French National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office (PNAT). The authorities are continuing their efforts with ongoing searches aiming to apprehend more suspects.

The arrests are tied to a series of attacks against correctional facilities and prison officers that took place between April 13 and 21. While the investigation continues, authorities are also looking into other incidents targeting different prisons to determine any potential connections with the current probe.

French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin publicly thanked magistrates and security forces for their swift action in apprehending those suspected of involvement in the attacks. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau also commended the work of investigators and judicial authorities, highlighting their determination and professionalism in achieving rapid results.

In recent weeks, a group identifying itself as the "Defense of French Prisoners' Rights" (DDPF) has claimed responsibility for several of the attacks. The group has reportedly been posting videos and threats on the encrypted messaging app Telegram. Their acronym, DDPF, was found near the sites of the targeted prisons.

While some of the attacks have characteristics of organized crime, others appear to be linked to far-left extremism, with some militants potentially joining the campaign. This blend of motivations has complicated the investigation, according to police sources reported by France 24.