Saint-Denis Mayor Present at High School Blockade and Barricade Fire
Footage shows Saint-Denis Mayor Bally Bagayoko standing near a burning barricade outside a high school during student protest blockades.
On September 28, 2026, during high school student blockades and civil unrest in Saint-Denis, Mayor Bally Bagayoko was captured on video standing near burning trash containers and barricades outside a local high school.
The footage circulated widely on social media, with political commentary claiming the mayor was encouraging urban destruction. Bagayoko subsequently addressed the controversy on French national media, stating that as mayor he was on the ground to liaise with students, calm tensions, and prevent further escalation.
Video evidence
Official requests & responses
A transparent record of the requests we sent to police and other authorities about this incident, and the information we received back.
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Préfecture de Seine-Saint-Denis / Mairie de Saint-Denis Police / Ministry Awaiting responseRequested · 7 Oct 2026
Requesting an official position and administrative clarification from the Prefect of Seine-Saint-Denis regarding the video recorded on September 28, 2026, depicting Saint-Denis Mayor Bally Bagayoko at an active high school blockade fire. We request information on:
Whether the Prefect or Ministry of the Interior has initiated an administrative review or formal inquiry into the Mayor's presence and conduct during the public order disturbance.
What official guidelines govern local municipal executives acting in a public order / mediation capacity during unnotified demonstrations under Articles L. 2212-1 and L. 2122-16 of the General Code of Local Authorities (CGCT).