French authorities are investigating an "ultra-left" faction of eco-warriors, living an off-the-grid lifestyle, as a driving force behind the recent riots that convulsed the country. Officials suspect this group, led by Hodei Ciarra Docampo, played a role in inciting the widespread unrest which resulted in over 1,000 police and protesters injured and 2,700 arrests, according to reports. One day of the unrest saw at least 3,000 stores looted.
Ciarra Docampo is specifically implicated in the arson attack on the historic city hall in Limoges, which destroyed the 19th-century landmark. He has been charged with attempted murder of a public official, a charge punishable by life in prison. Video evidence reportedly shows him contributing to the fire by throwing a blazing trash can into the building. The investigation is currently focusing on Ciarra Docampo's family and associates who reside in the remote village of Bussiere-Boffy.
Ciarra Docampo's father, Fernando Ramirez, described as a Spanish-born anarchist with ties to the Basque separatist movement, and his wife had previously allowed individuals without permanent residences to occupy their land. A former mayor of Bussiere-Boffy commented on the disruptive nature of these individuals. The family has been associated with anti-development and anti-technology campaigns, including opposition to smart electric meters, which they believe are tools of government control that emit harmful electromagnetic waves.
Ramirez was convicted earlier this year for setting fire to trucks involved in the deployment of France's smart electric meters. Ciarra Docampo and his mother were also investigated for arson. Local vandalism attributed to the group includes attacks on television antennas, which disrupted communications for millions. A slogan advocating for a ban on 5G internet was found spray-painted nearby, referencing "the voice of the wind and the song of the birds."
Local officials have alleged Ramirez's involvement with the Basque terror group ETA, which was responsible for numerous deaths over its 60-year existence. Ramirez has denied these accusations, though his DNA was reportedly found at the scenes of both arson attacks. He defended the acts as a "cry for help" and a message to the population. Some neighbors have defended the family, describing them as supportive of travelers and young people needing shelter.