In Paris intra-muros, between January and May 2024, the number of home jackings exploded, targeting all categories of households. 135 kidnappings were recorded, while more “classic” burglaries are down.
© SEBASTIEN SALOM-GOMIS/SIPA
Homejacking is the act of breaking into a home by sequestering its occupants. According to The Parisianbetween January and May 2024, 135 kidnappings were reported to the police in Paris (intra-muros). This is 32% more than in 2023, which recorded 102 over the same period. The police prefecture also indicated that ” The increase was even more marked in previous months ” Home jacking has become “ the criminogenic phenomenon that has been marked since the beginning of the year on the Parisian plate ».
Encrypted messaging could be the main source for criminals to gain access to various information such as addresses or access codes. Experts have begun to examine a possible link between the decline in burglaries and the increase in home-jackings. It’s too early to tell. But it’s worrying enough that we’ll have to keep a close eye on it. »
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In June 2024, individuals broke into a home in the 16th arrondissement, threatened its occupant and took the equivalent of €150,000 to €200,000 worth of property. As well as the victim’s smartphone, which allowed the police to find the culprits. A law enforcement officer said: ” This is one of the problems of these young people who want to climb the ladder of delinquency too quickly. It’s one thing to snatch a cell phone or rob an apartment. But homejacking is another level. You need to have information to find targets, carry out reconnaissance, show composure when committing the act, sell the goods, etc. »
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According to a magistrate, “ these files most often have criminal classifications and are entrusted to judicial police services. Judicial inquiries are being opened. There are ways to investigate. »
A lawyer also explained that “ the perpetrators of this type of act, like the robbers, do not realize the violence that this represents for the victims. […] They are focused on the loot and the idea that they will not harm them if they help them achieve it. »
