Tourists visiting a popular Mediterranean vacation destination have received a caution from a masked armed group. Corsica, renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic towns, and delectable cuisine, has been flagged as a potential risk by a separatist organization, the Corsican National Liberation Front-Union of Combatants (FLNC-UC).
In a recent video release, the FLNC-UC featured approximately a dozen militants with firearms, warning individuals considering purchasing a second home in Corsica that their safety cannot be guaranteed. The group, advocating for independence from France, criticized the influx of people into the region as “excessive colonization driven by settlements.”
The group’s leader, seen in the video, emphasized that until Corsican national rights are acknowledged and respected, the group’s stance remains clear: newcomers are advised to stay away. French anti-terror prosecutors have initiated a preliminary inquiry following the video release, focusing on potential conspiracy to commit terrorist activities and unauthorized possession of weapons.
Despite the FLNC-UC’s rejection of an autonomy proposal, which they deemed a mockery of Corsican people, the bill recognizing Corsica as a unique historical and cultural entity with enhanced local assembly powers has been approved by the lower house of Parliament and is set for Senate review in October.
The FLNC-UC argued that the bill undermines their demands and identity, highlighting the increasing migration to Corsica, particularly from France, where thousands arrive annually for employment or property investments, leading to a surge in second homeowners labeled as “invaders” by the group.
Originating in 1976, the FLNC has been involved in numerous incidents, including a wave of bombings known as the “blue night.” Despite internal factionalism, the group remains active, with recent attacks in 2023 targeting vacation residences and public buildings in Ajaccio, causing property damage but no casualties reported.