'Far-left activist' on French security watchlist is arrested over arson that destroyed historic Limoges town hall during riots

Anti-terror police have taken over the investigation into the blaze that brought down the roof and belfry of the 1883 listed building on Saturday. The suspect, named locally as Hodei CD, was detained by the elite RAID unit in Val d'Issoire. He is suspected of smashing windows with others to get inside and start the fire. Limoges mayor Guillaume Guerin says the building needs a 'Notre Dame-style' rebuild.

Hodei CD was reportedly tried last year for punching an officer at a 2024 protest.

Guerin has threatened to resign unless the French government funds the reconstruction.

Almost 150 weekend rioters have already been convicted and jailed for violence or damage.