Overview

• Four ex-paratroopers of the 8e Régiment de parachutistes d’infanterie de marine (RPIMa) in Castres have filed formal complaints alleging abuse by superiors, including violence, moral harassment, and incitement to suicide.
• The Armée de Terre has launched an internal 'enquête de commandement' and pledged to cooperate fully with the Paris prosecutor’s investigation into the allegations.
• Victim testimonies describe a toxic environment involving physical assaults, degrading punishments, and psychological abuse, with some reporting suicide attempts due to the harassment.
• The Ministry of the Armed Forces has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on such practices and warned of severe disciplinary actions if the claims are substantiated.
• The case has reignited calls for reform within elite military units, highlighting entrenched hazing cultures and the need for stronger protections for soldiers' well-being.