The Corsican National Liberation Front – Union of Combatants delivered a particularly virulent message during a clandestine press conference held at a secret location. Facing masked and armed men, the pro-independence group rejected the autonomy plan currently being discussed for Corsica, which it called a "masquerade," while denouncing those who support this institutional change. The movement also attacked non-Corsican people settling on the island, accusing them of "settler colonialism."
Explicit threats against newcomers
In its statement, the FLNC-UC asserts that Corsica is experiencing "a massive influx of nearly 5.000 foreigners, the vast majority of whom are French," each year, whether to work or due to the proliferation of second homes. The group then issues a direct warning to those concerned: "Until our national rights are recognized and respected, we have only one message to send them: stay home.", adding: "And if that's not the case, don't consider yourself safe on our national territory." These remarks are aimed at the people whom the movement calls "invaders".
The autonomy plan was strongly rejected
During this intervention, representatives of the FLNC-UC also denounced the political process surrounding Corsican autonomy within the French Republic. The group believes that this reform, approved on June 23 by the National Assembly, does not meet its demands and calls it a "masquerade."
The national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office is opening an investigation
Following this clandestine press conference and the threats made, the national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office opened a preliminary investigation. The investigation focuses in particular on the charge of "criminal conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism." Investigators are also examining facts related to "the acquisition, possession, and transport of category A and B weapons, ammunition, or weapon components in connection with a terrorist enterprise."
