Nice, France – Two additional individuals have been placed under formal investigation in connection with the disturbing incident involving a pig’s head left at the residence of Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi, officials announced Friday. This brings the total number of people implicated in the case to four, as authorities continue to probe what Estrosi has described as a politically motivated act of intimidation.
The latest developments arrive as the city prepares for municipal elections, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. According to a statement released by the Nice prosecutor’s office, the two newly detained suspects – a former police officer and a close associate of Estrosi – were taken into custody Wednesday and formally investigated Friday. No evidence currently suggests the involvement of others beyond those already identified and sought by investigators, prosecutor Damien Martinelli stated.
The initial discovery on February 27th involved not only the pig’s head but also an antisemitic poster featuring a Star of David and a derogatory slur directed at Estrosi. The incident sparked widespread condemnation and fueled accusations of political maneuvering as the election nears. Estrosi, representing the Horizons party, is seeking a fourth term but currently trails his rival, Éric Ciotti (UDR-RN), in recent polls, according to reports.
The investigation has revealed a complex web of connections. One of the two Tunisian nationals previously detained and placed in provisional detention is an IT specialist who had prior contact with a communications officer from Estrosi’s team and even met with the mayor to discuss social media strategies. This connection has raised questions about potential vulnerabilities and the possibility of external influence.
Suspects’ Backgrounds and Allegations
The two individuals newly placed under investigation present contrasting profiles. The former police officer, aged 79, previously worked with the Direction de la surveillance du territoire (DST) – France’s former intelligence agency – and now operates as a private detective specializing in cybercrime. He reportedly has longstanding ties to one of the Tunisian suspects already in custody. The prosecutor noted the former officer claims to be of far-right political leaning, TF1 Info reported.
The second suspect, a 46-year-classic marketing and digital communication expert, is described as a close associate of the Estrosi couple. He has been placed under investigation for aggravated violence against a public official, inciting hatred or violence based on origin, race, or religion, and association with criminal activity. Prosecutors have requested his provisional detention.
The former DST officer faces charges of fraudulent access to an automated data processing system and criminal association, and has been placed under judicial control.
Estrosi’s Response and Legal Action
Mayor Estrosi has vehemently denounced the incident as a “despicable machination” and intends to file a civil lawsuit. He has already been questioned by investigators on March 5th and is expected to be interviewed again with his wife in the coming days, according to the prosecutor’s office. His legal representatives, Olivier Baratelli and Gérard Baudoux, stated that the investigation will “shed light on the infiltrations and betrayals” surrounding the case.
Estrosi has publicly pointed fingers at the team of his rival, Éric Ciotti, and businessman Pierre-Édouard Stérin, alleging their involvement. Stérin has refuted these accusations and plans to file a defamation lawsuit in response.
The investigation, which began after the discovery of the disturbing items on February 27th, has involved analyzing surveillance footage to identify suspects. Two Tunisian nationals were initially arrested and placed in detention last week. The investigation continues to explore the motivations behind the act and any potential connections to the upcoming municipal elections.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are seeking to determine the full extent of any potential conspiracy. The case has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the final stages of the campaign, raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the potential for politically motivated attacks.
As the investigation progresses, further details are expected to emerge, potentially revealing more about the individuals involved and their motives. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the upcoming municipal elections and the political landscape of Nice.
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