Increased Attacks on Public Transportation Demand Action

Recent incidents involving stone-throwing at buses in Marseille’s northern districts have prompted a meaningful response from local authorities. These attacks, targeting several RTM (Régie des Transports Métropolitains) bus lines, have not only caused damage and disruption but also raised serious concerns about passenger and driver safety. In response, enhanced security protocols are being implemented to protect the public transport network.

Chronology of the Attacks and Resulting Damage

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, between 9 PM and 10 PM, multiple RTM bus lines, including lines 25, 36, 27, and B2, were subjected to stone attacks in various locations across northern Marseille. These locations included areas between Chemin de Saint Louis and La Rose (lines 25 and 36), Chemins de Saint Antoine in Saint Joseph and Rue Le chatelier (line 27), and the Bourrely sector (line B2). The RTM has officially filed a complaint regarding these acts of vandalism, emphasizing the operational disruptions and financial burdens they impose. The company is currently assessing the full extent of the damages.

An estimate of the amount of degradations is underway.

RTM Spokesperson

in total, seven buses sustained damage, with two suffering broken windows. The attacks led to service disruptions,including a temporary diversion of the B2 line on Wednesday evening. Such disruptions can substantially impact commuters, especially those relying on public transport during late hours.

Immediate Response and Security Reinforcements

Following the incidents, SISTC (Security and Intervention Service for Collective Transport) police units, along with agents from the Assistance and Protection Group (GAP) and RTM auditors, were swiftly deployed to secure the affected areas and ensure the safety of passengers and drivers.As a direct consequence of these attacks, two SISTC teams will be strategically positioned in the targeted sectors in the coming days to provide an increased security presence.

RTM’s Thorough Security Strategy

The RTM emphasizes its commitment to securing the public transport network, particularly during evening and night hours. The company employs a multi-layered security approach, including GAP agents, verification personnel, and PSI (Prevention and Security Intervention) agents. These agents are strategically stationed at the terminuses of the 18 evening and night lines and patrol the network. in the event of any incident, the national police are immediately notified through the PCS (Command and Control Post), and SISTC teams are dispatched to the scene.

The evening and night network is secured by teams from the RTM security department: GAP agents, verifying agents and PSI agents positioned both at the terminus of the 18 evening and night lines and on the network. In the event of incidents, in connection with the PCS, the national police are informed and the SISTC teams deployed on the scene of the incidents.

RTM Official Statement

Proactive Measures: Prevention and Awareness

Beyond reactive security measures, the RTM actively engages in preventative initiatives. The RTM prevention unit conducts regular awareness campaigns to promote compliance with public transport regulations and responsible usage. In 2024 alone, the unit carried out 716 such operations, demonstrating a proactive approach to fostering a safer and more respectful environment for public transport users. These efforts are crucial in addressing the root causes of disruptive behaviour and promoting a sense of shared obligation among passengers.