Bus Driver Arrested for Cannabis Use in Paris
On Wednesday, an RATP bus driver was arrested and taken into custody after testing positive for cannabis during a police inspection, Le Parisien reports.
Erratic Driving and Failed Maneuver
While conducting a routine check of public transport vehicles, police officers in Alfortville (Val-de-Marne) instructed a driver to pull over his bus for an inspection. The driver proceeded to perform a disastrous parking maneuver, crashing into a lamppost and breaking a window on his vehicle (without causing any injuries).
Positive Drug Test and Immediate Arrest
Following the incident, the driver underwent a drug test which revealed traces of cannabis. The 43-year-old man was immediately arrested and taken into custody.
Zero Tolerance Policy
The Créteil prosecutor’s office stated that the driver will be brought before the court on Friday for a pretrial recognition of guilt procedure related to driving a vehicle under the influence of illegal substances.
When questioned by Le Figaro, RATP declined to comment on the incident. However, the company maintains a "zero tolerance" policy, stating that "random checks are carried out regularly for all modes of transport: buses, trams, metros, and RERs." Additionally, "in the event of a proven breach of safety regulations (positive alcohol or drug test, etc.), the company takes a strict stance: immediate suspension from driving and initiation of disciplinary proceedings that may lead to dismissal."
Increased Police Monitoring and Positive Results
In 2024, around 250 inspection campaigns were conducted in Île-de-France, with over 1,500 agents screened for alcohol and nearly 700 agents tested for drugs. The drug tests yielded eight positive cases (1.25%), all of whom were dismissed, as reported by France 3 Régions.
Calls for Alternative Approaches
Regarding the possible dismissal of the Alfortville bus driver, Ahmed Berrahal, a CGT X union representative, questioned the approach, stating, "Rather than punishing, why not prioritize support and treatment?" He also expressed concerns about police involvement in drug testing when RATP already conducts its own inspections.
Previous Fatal Accident Involving Impaired Driver
Last Thursday (January 30), a 15-year-old girl tragically died in a school bus accident in Châteaudun. The investigation revealed that the driver was under the influence of cannabis. Following the incident, an extensive police drug testing campaign was launched in Île-de-France, resulting in six drivers testing positive for cannabis—nearly as many as during the entire year of 2024.
Debate on Cannabis Legalization
The topic of cannabis has also been discussed in the French parliament in recent days. Antoine Léaument (LFI) and Ludovic Mendes (Ensemble) called for the legalization of cannabis in a report on the fight against drug trafficking presented to the Law Commission.
