What Are Police in Paris Called?

By Alice Nichols

Paris is a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and amazing cuisine. It is also known for its police force, which is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city.

But have you ever wondered what the police in Paris are called? Let’s explore this topic in detail.

What Are Police Called in Paris?

The police force in Paris is called the “Police Nationale.” It is a national police force that operates throughout France but has a special presence in Paris. The Police Nationale is responsible for maintaining public order, preventing crime, and investigating criminal activities.

The History of Police Nationale

The history of the Police Nationale dates back to 1667 when King Louis XIV created a special police force called the “Lieutenant General of Police.” This force was responsible for maintaining law and order in Paris and became the model for modern policing around the world.

In 1941, during World War II, the Vichy government disbanded the Paris Police Force, but it was re-established after liberation by General Charles de Gaulle. It was then renamed as “Police Nationale” on April 8th, 1944.

The Role of Police Nationale

The Police Nationale has a wide range of responsibilities that include:

  • Maintaining public order
  • Preventing crime
  • Investigating criminal activities
  • Protecting people and property
  • Maintaining traffic safety
  • Enforcing laws and regulations

The Different Units of Police Nationale

The Police Nationale consists of different units that have specialized roles. Some of these units include:

  • Brigade Anti-Criminalité (BAC) – responsible for maintaining public order and preventing crime.
  • Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité (CRS) – responsible for riot control and maintaining public order during protests and demonstrations.
  • Bureau Central des Renseignements Généraux (BCRG) – responsible for gathering and analyzing intelligence related to criminal activities.
  • Direction de la Sécurité Publique (DSP) – responsible for general police work in Paris, including patrolling the streets, investigating crimes, and maintaining public order.

The Uniforms of Police Nationale

The Police Nationale’s uniforms have evolved over time. Today, they wear blue uniforms with a badge on their chest that reads “Police” in white letters. They also wear a cap with a badge that reads “Police Nationale.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Police Nationale is the police force in Paris responsible for maintaining law and order. The force has a rich history dating back to 1667 and has evolved over time to become one of the most respected police forces in the world. With specialized units dedicated to specific roles, the Police Nationale is well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise.