Where is the investigation into the January 30 incident in Jeddah?
“The Saudi authorities appear to be ruling out the trail of malicious intent. The investigation is continuing. We are waiting to learn more about what happened. “
Do you have any news on the state of health of Philippe Boutron, injured in the explosion of his vehicle?
“Philippe Boutron was seriously injured in both legs. He joined Paris yesterday (Monday) noon, where he underwent several tests. Now we will have to be patient, it will be long. “
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Are the facts reconsidered as an attack?
“I would say that according to the investigation carried out by the Saudi authorities, this is not the case. We have just learned that France, via the national anti-terrorism prosecution, has just opened a preliminary investigation. “
“We asked the Saudi authorities to increase the police presence all around the rally”
The existence of a video of the incident is mentioned. Are you aware of it?
“There is no video of the incident itself, at least not to my knowledge. Only the hotel has a video, but indoor parking. However, Philippe Boutron’s car was located outside. This video especially allowed the Saudi authorities to know what time Philippe Boutron and his passengers arrived and left. But there is no video of the incident, that is not true. In any case, I haven’t heard of it. “
What does the reinforcement of security around the bivouac consist of?
“As a precaution, we asked the Saudi authorities to increase the police presence all around the rally. This translates into more security personnel at the entrance to the bivouac, in the start and finish areas of the specials and overall throughout the course. I do not have precise figures at my disposal, but overall there is a large police presence. “
Are you in contact with the French authorities?
“As every year, we are in permanent contact with the French Embassy in Saudi Arabia, which is our point of contact for all information. “
Persistent rumors point to a new incident on Tuesday morning. Can you confirm it?
“It’s not true. I never heard of it. If something had happened, I would have known. There was no new incident this morning, on the bivouac or elsewhere. “