France’s Tarascon prison faced second violent attack Wednesday night, with assailants setting multiple cars ablaze in parking lot. No casualties reported, but incident marks escalating wave of aggression targeting French prisons.

National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) confirmed at least nine prison-related facilities, including staff training school, damaged across recent attacks. Authorities suspect terrorism involvement, prompting urgent investigation to identify perpetrators.

Group claiming responsibility, DDPF—believed to stand for “Defending Rights French Prisoners”—left graffiti at several attack sites, including Tarascon. Police probing Telegram channel linked to DDPF, created day before attacks began, for clues.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin labeled incidents “terrorist attacks,” suggesting possible connection to government’s crackdown on drug trafficking, though other motives, including far-left militancy, under review.

President Emmanuel Macron vowed to track down and punish those responsible, emphasizing attacks aim to destabilize state by intimidating prison staff.

Earlier this week, similar assaults hit prisons in Toulon, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Nanterre, with gunfire reported at Toulon’s La Farlède facility. PNAT’s investigation explores charges like attempted murder and organized destruction tied to terrorist motives.

Rising violence follows France’s intensified efforts against South American cocaine influx, fueling gang activity. Despite record seizures, drug-related crime spreads from Marseille to smaller towns, escalating tensions. Authorities remain on high alert as coordinated attacks signal growing challenge to public security.