Series of thefts at Montélimar Est rest area
During the night of July 24–25, a series of thefts from parked campers and caravans took place at the Montélimar Est rest area (A7 motorway, Drôme department). According to the gendarmerie, about ten vehicles were affected.
The perpetrators entered the vehicles while the owners were sleeping and stole laptops, bags, phones and wallets. Two complaints have been filed. The suspects are being sought. The gendarmerie reports that a group believed to be operating from southern France is already known to law enforcement. Due to the summer season, patrols at rest areas have been reinforced.
Similar case in Doubs
During the night of August 2–3, 2026, thefts from two motorhomes occurred at the Marchaux rest area on the A36 motorway in the Doubs department. The alarm was raised around 3 a.m., and a patrol from the École-Valentin motorized unit arrived. In the first vehicle, the perpetrators broke the lock and stole a bag with cash and two mobile phones; in the second, 300 euros. Both affected families are German citizens. An investigation is underway.