French authorities detained two Algerians with large TikTok followings on Sunday, accusing them of inciting terror after allegedly posting videos calling for violence in France.
The arrests, in Brest (west) and Grenoble (southeast), occur amidst heightened tensions between France and its former colony, Algeria.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed doubts about Algeria’s commitment to a 2022 roadmap aimed at easing post-colonial relations.
A blogger known as “Imad Tintin” was arrested near Grenoble on Friday after posting a video urging followers to “burn alive, kill and rape on French territory.” The video, which garnered over 800,000 views, was removed, but Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau shared a screenshot online, condemning it as “vile” and promising action.
The 31-year-old blogger, whose residency permit application was denied, faces a fast-track trial on Monday. His twin brother, also arrested, was found with video production equipment.
‘War Waged in France’
In Brest, 25-year-old Algerian TikTok influencer “Zazou Youssef” was remanded on Friday for “publicly advocating an act of terrorism.” Scheduled for trial on February 24, he faces up to seven years in prison and a €100,000 fine if convicted.
TikTok confirmed banning the account for multiple hate speech violations.
Tensions between France and Algeria have escalated following President Macron’s support for Moroccan control over Western Sahara, a stance opposed by Algeria.
Algerian dissident Chawki Benzehra accused the Algerian regime of encouraging influencers to promote violence in France, suggesting a coordinated effort against French interests.
